James "Jim" R. Cooper

James Robert Cooper, a devoted son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on September 11, 2025, in Plymouth Township, Michigan. Born on February 24, 1944 in Dearborn to Jack and Gertrude (Cahoon) Cooper, Jim moved to Plymouth in the late 1940s and called it home for the rest of his life.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Cathy of 58 years, his son Richard (Tam Perry), granddaughter Emma and grandson Benjamin. Jim is also survived by his sister Jean (Bill) Weber, sister-in law Martha (Jim) Kropf and many beloved nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his sisters, Susan (Brian) Howe and Ann (Bill) Springer, who were integral parts of his life.

Jim and Cathy met in elementary school through Cathy’s older brother Jim Kropf.  Jim graduated in 1962 from Plymouth High School where in his (only slightly) misspent youth, he was a founding member of the Cesspool Six and nicknamed “Red” because of his bright hair. After high school, Jim spent a year at Michigan State University, then transferred to the University of Michigan and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. After a brief stint at “Ford’s”, he joined his father at DuBois-Cooper & Associates (DCA). He spent the rest of his career at DCA - most of those with his partner and good friend, Barry Simescu.

Jim retired in 2006. In retirement, Jim and Cathy divided their time between their homes in Plymouth and Suttons Bay, Michigan as well as frequent travels throughout the U.S. and abroad. Jim was an avid photographer and enjoyed hiking in the Leelanau Peninsula. But his greatest joy was spending time with his two grandchildren who always brought a smile to his face.

Friends and family may gather at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, Michigan on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. until the start of the Celebration of Life Service beginning at 11:30 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, or memorial trees, Jim's favorite charity is  www.leelanauconservancy.org