William Earl Cooper M.D.

William Columbus Earl Cooper M.D. Dr. William Earl Cooper,

December 9, 1935 - January 24, 2025

Dr. William Earl Cooper, a beloved physician, devoted father, and cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 89.

Born on December 9, 1935, in Chillicothe, OH, to the late Harold and Evelyn Cooper, William grew up in Seymour, IN, attending Riley Grade School and Seymour High School. A lifelong learner, he earned three degrees from Indiana University Bloomington: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (1957), Bachelor of Arts in Medical Sciences (1962), and Doctor of Medicine (1966). His passion for medicine led him to become board-certified in Otolaryngology in 1977, and in 1979, he was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Cooper proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, first in the Office of Special Investigations (March-July 1958) and later in Civil Engineering (July 1958-March 1960). He was especially proud of his service during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

For 32 years, Dr. Cooper practiced Otolaryngology in Columbus, IN, dedicating his career to improving the lives of his patients. His hospital appointments included Bartholomew County Hospital (Columbus, IN), Muscatatuck State Developmental Center (Butlerville, IN), Madison State Hospital (Madison, IN), and Decatur County Hospital (Greensburg, IN). A respected leader in his field, he served as Acting Chief of Surgery and contributed to numerous hospital committees, including Tissue, Pharmacy, Joint Conference, Surgical Case Review, and Intensive Care QA.

Dr. Cooper's passion for medicine extended beyond his practice. He held numerous leadership positions, including Treasurer and President of the Bartholomew-Brown County Medical Society, President of the Indiana Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and Trustee for the 4th District of the Indiana State Medical Association (ISMA). His dedication culminated in his service as Chairman of the ISMA Board of Trustees, Speaker, and President in 1995. In 1996, he also served as an Alternate Delegate for the American Medical Association.

Beyond medicine, Dr. Cooper was an active member of several organizations, including the SAE Fraternity, Freemasonry (32nd degree, Scottish Rite), the Moose Fraternity, Elks Lodge No. 521, and Shriners Hospital International.

Known for his kind smile, calm blue eyes, and warm demeanor, Dr. Cooper had a gift for making everyone feel at ease. He had a deep love for music, especially Frank Sinatra and Dave Brubeck, and a passion for dancing. Affectionately known as "Coop" or "Doc," he was an avid golfer, finding joy and relaxation on the greens. One of his proudest achievements was shooting his age, a goal he continued to accomplish on golf outings at Stone Mountain, GA, and courses across Indiana, including Harrison Lake Country Club, Hickory Stick Golf Club, and Salt Creek Golf Course.

A lifelong explorer, Dr. Cooper, found joy in experiencing new cultures, cuisines, and destinations. His adventures took him to Italy, China, Israel, Egypt, Scotland, Ireland, Paris, London, and Hawaii. A man of humor and wit, he often shared his signature phrases: "Take it easy, have a good time," and "Toodle-loo." His kindness, easygoing nature, and humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Above all, Dr. Cooper was a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His daughters, Lisa and Lesley, were the center of his world, and together they shared unforgettable adventures and quiet moments of joy. His legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom will live on in his family.

Dr. Cooper is survived by his daughters, Lisa (Gary) Mendelow of Bay Village, OH, and Lesley (Chris) Eberle of Fishers, IN; his beloved grandchildren,Carli and Cooper Mendelow, Johnathan, Abigail, and Madison Eberle, and Catherine (Juan) Ongay; and his great-grandchildren, Harper and Javier Ongay. He is also survived by his sister, Jan (Keith) Sells of Edinburgh, IN; his brother, Larry (Marilyn) Cooper of Seymour, IN; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

A memorial service will be held on March 1, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Moose Lodge in Columbus, IN. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the ALS Association in Dr. William E. Cooper's honor.

Dr. Cooper was a remarkable man who embodied kindness, humility, and a zest for life. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.