Frederick Eugene Cooper Obituary

Frederick Eugene “Fred” Cooper, 94, of St. Joseph, passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at his home. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 PM on Wednesday, October 28, at Christ Lutheran Church, 4333 Cleveland Ave., Stevensville. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery in St. Joseph. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Lutheran Church or Seven Star Sanctuary & Rescue. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Services.

Fred, a good husband, father, brother and grandfather, was born September 11, 1932, to Albert and Bertha Cooper in Three Rivers, Michigan. Fred spent his early adulthood working many different jobs from steel mills in Detroit to driving supply trucks for Peidt and Sons. He also owned his own business, Cooper Sanitation, installing septic tanks.

After spending a few years in the National Guard, Fred proudly served his country in the United States Army at the Nike Missile Base in California.

Fred had a full career working 32 years for Gast Manufacturing before retiring. After retiring, he worked alongside his brother, Don, at the Fireplace Shop and he and his brother cut and hauled firewood until Don's death.

Fred met the love of his life, Donna Mae Johannes, in 1958 and they were married on January 1, 1962. Fred and Donna were married for 47 years until Donna passed away in 2009. Fred and Donna's marriage produced two children, Beth and John.

Fred was a long-time member of Christ Lutheran Church, at times being an elder of the church and was still an usher on Thursday nights until his passing. He had a passion for his Detroit Tigers and Lions, watching every game he could get on. He also loved cars, being a member and trustee of the Southwestern Michigan Car Collectors.

Fred is survived by his children, Beth (Charles) Smith and F. John (Jennifer) Cooper; grandchildren, Chase (Lauren) Smith, Daniel (Maggie) Smith, Phillip Cooper, Bradley Cooper and Brennan Cooper; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in his death by his wife Donna; his parents; and his siblings, Betty, Abe, Don and Chuck.