James Arthur Cooper
James Arthur Cooper, 82, of Butler, formerly of Parker, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on September 29, 2026, at Butler Memorial Hospital after an extended illness.
Born in Parker on May 31, 1944, he was the son of the late Arthur Jr. (Buck) and Dorothy Cratty Cooper.
Jim graduated from Allegheny Clarion Valley High School. He served as a Green Beret in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1967. He was an active member of the Mt. Chestnut Presbyterian Church, where he was heavily involved in maintenance and electrical work. Jim worked for AK Steel for 37.5 years, where he retired as an electronics technician.
In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting, gardening, and spending time outdoors. He was happiest when he was keeping busy and could often be found working on a project, fixing something, tending to his garden, or finding something new to tackle. He had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed experiences that kept him active, including hiking and even ziplining. Among his many other interests, he enjoyed R.C. cars and was a ham radio operator.
He also had a love for running, participating in numerous 5Ks and completing a half-marathon. Some of his most memorable runs were those he shared with his daughters and grandsons, making those accomplishments even more special.
He was a generous and caring man who was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. Above all, family was at the heart of his life. He dearly loved his children and grandchildren and took great pride in being part of their lives. He especially enjoyed attending their school activities and events and, whenever the opportunity arose, participating right alongside them. The time he spent with his family and the memories they created together were among his greatest joys and blessings.
He is survived by his daughters, Amber (Scott) Thomas and Kristy (Joe) Tonelli. Grandchildren: Patrick Freed, Andrew (Danica) Freed, Israel Lawrence, Hunter (Mattie) Lawrence, Peyton Lawrence, Zakary Tonelli, Rocco Tonelli. Great-grandchildren: Lenora Freed and Esme Lawrence. Siblings: Sandra Baker, Patty Merwin, and Dave Cooper. His longtime companion, Susan Burns.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Tom Cooper and Nancy Wilks.
A gathering of friends and family will be held Saturday, October 10, from 1-3 p.m. at Buzard Funeral Home in Parker, 201 S. Wayne Ave. A memorial service with military honors will follow at 3 pm at the funeral home.
To view or post a condolence, please visit www.buzardfuneralhomes.com.
