OSAGE CITY, Kan. – Robert “Bob” M. Cooper, 86, went home to heaven Aug. 5, 2025, in hospice care at Lexington Park, Topeka, Kan. He was born Feb. 9, 1939, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Mankato, Minn., to William “Don” D. and Hazel M. (Hake) Cooper.
Bob graduated from high school May 1957 at Mankato. In October 1957, with pride and a sense of duty to his country, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force, and was discharged in 1961. He then joined the Air National Guard, at Forbes Field, Topeka, and served as senior master sergeant until he retired in August 1990, devoting 33 years of service to our country. Bob or “Coop”, as he was known to his military buddies, was awarded many honors and distinctions. He served in Operation Desert Shield. He believed in doing things the right way and supporting the mission of the Kansas Air National Guard.
On Feb. 9, 1967, he married Linda Dianne (Campbell) Cooper, in Hutchinson, Kan. They shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, and resided in Osage City, Kan.
The simple pleasures in life brought immense joy to Bob. He was a thoughtful and kind person. His faith and love for the Lord brought him great comfort and assisted him throughout his life. He had a love and passion for all things Purple Martins. He also enjoyed fishing from time to time. Bob will be remembered and missed by his surrogate family at Marilynn’s Place, where he enjoyed so many home-cooked meals after Linda passed. He had many dear neighbors and friends in Osage City, who can picture him driving all over town in his old 1979 Ford pick-up truck.
That Coop’s military buddies still enjoyed gathering together often showed a fellowship and brotherhood that lasted a lifetime. Coop will be remembered not just for his love of family, but for his warm heart, his steadfast presence, and the guidance he provided to all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy is one of strength, honor, devotion and an unwavering commitment to his family and country.
Bob is survived by his loving son, Cory (Naomi) Cooper, of Seattle, Wash.; grandchildren, Reginald and Isaac Cooper, Seattle; brother, Charles (Nancy) Cooper, Mankato; and sisters-in-law, Betty Cooper, Hutchinson, and Doris Cooper, Weaubleau, Mo., and Kathy (Larry) Young, Hutchinson. He was a devoted uncle and will be missed by his many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Linda, who passed in July 2021; brothers, Donald and Gerald Cooper; and brother-in-law, Robert Campbell.
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered, a true patriot, a loving family man and a lifelong friend to all. His spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and devoted friends and he will surely be missed.
Cremation has taken place. Bob will be laid to rest in Woodland Hills Cemetery, at Mankato, next to his parents.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the Midland Care Hospice House, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.
