Monday, May 8, 2023

Dorothy Cooper

Dorothy Cooper died peacefully on May 6, 2023 at the Clayberg Nursing Center in Cuba, Illinois.


She was born October 10, 1933, at home in Knox County, Illinois to William Alfred and Leota Irene (Lutz) Welker. They preceded her in death, along with her stepmother Mary (Rusch) Welker.


She married William Clifford Cooper on June 30, 1955, in Havana. He preceded her in death on April 1, 1994. They had two children, Rory Cooper of Canton and Reba Ford of Lewistown. They survive, along with her former son-in-law Jack Ford and step grandchildren, Jamey Ford and Stacey Warren. She is also survived by one sister-in-law, Wanda Fawcett of Ipava and longtime friends, Glenda Barclay and Sally Clark.


She was preceded in death by her brothers: Darold (Annabelle) Welker, Vernon (Carol) Welker, her twin Dean (Ermadean) Welker and James Hedges, along with sisters Mildred (Glen) Archdale and Charlotte (Frank) Beaird, who helped to raise her.


Dorothy worked as a waitress for many years in the Lewistown area before becoming a bus driver for Lewistown Grade School in 1968. She retired from driving in 1996.


In her retirement, she became very active with the VFW Post 5001 Auxiliary, where she was a life member and served as Senior Vice President for many years. She could always be found there helping at events, dancing to good old country music or having an afternoon Pepsi.


She played softball for the Lewistown Sliders women’s fast pitch team and bowled for many years in both Canton and Lewistown. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, roller skating, country music and dancing. She loved the outdoors and spent many hours fishing, mushroom hunting or just working in the yard.


She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother and friend.


Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery, Lewistown, with graveside services there at 11:00 AM Wednesday May 10th. There will be no visitation. Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown is assisting the family with arrangements.


Memorial contributions can be made to the Clayberg Resident Activity Fund. To view Dorothy’s life tribute video or to send online condolences visit henrylange.com

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