May 01, 1929 - January 06, 2016
Vernon H. Cooper passed away January 6th, 2016 at Colonial Court Assisted Living; he was 86. Vernon was born on May 1st, 1929 in Chesaning, Michigan to Harold Cooper and Anna Hepner. He joined the Airforce in August of 1948. He was stationed at Fairchild Airforce Base when he met his wife, Jane; they married on July 28th, 1950 in Spokane, Washington. After being stationed in Japan during the Korean War as an airplane mechanic, Vernon was discharged from the Airforce on July 1st, 1952. In September of 1954, Vernon was hired by the Great Northern Railroad as a switchman and brakeman and in 1965 he started as a yardmaster. On October 1st, 1991 he retired from Burlington Northern Railroad. Vernon was busy all the time, he loved to fish, golf, bowl and play pool; he entered many golf tournaments. He also loved to travel with Jane in their motorhome as well as spend time with grandkids and family. Vernon volunteered for the District 9 Fire Department for many years and also coached little league baseball. Vernon is survived by his four children, Vernon H. Cooper (Patti), Mark Allan Cooper (Jodel), Jamie Joy Barker, Raymond Brick Cooper, all of Spokane, Washington; four brothers and one sister from Chesaning, Michigan; eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren; and girlfriend, Elaine Ingraham, all residing in Spokane, Washington. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Jane Ruth Cooper; and brother, Ernie Perry Cooper. A celebration of life will be held for Vernon on January 29th, 2016 at 1pm at Heritage Funeral Home Chapel, 508 N. Government Way, Spokane, Washington. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Vern’s memory to the Union Gospel Mission, 1224 E. Trent Ave. Spokane, Washington 99202 or to Disabled Veterans of Spokane, 212 S. David St. Spokane, Washington 99212. Community Cremation & Funeral - Spokane Valley - 13127 E. Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, WA 99216, (509)926-2020 - Communitycremationandfuneral.com
