James Oliver Cooper

James O. Cooper, 86 was born on July 19, 1933 in Portland, Oregon and passed away on October 18, 2019, with his family by his side while abroad at his home in the Philippines.

James grew up in Portland, Oregon and attended Benson Polytechnic High School. He joined the Navy on April 2, 1952 and retired in 1979. Once retired he moved to Pasco, Washington where he worked for Energy Northwest from November 2, 1979 until he retired once again on July 30, 1998. He was referred to this second career by his close friend from the Navy, John Straub.

James was highly intelligent, a witty conversationalist, possessed a great sense of humor, very handy and, incredibly dependable. He was a father figure to many and a passionate supporter of his family. James loved talking about the weather, reading the newspaper and never had much patience for a long wait.

James O. Cooper is survived by his wife Fe Cooper; two daughters, Mirafe Valenzuela and Stephanie Valenzuela; two sons, Mike & wife, Yolly Valenzuela and Manolito Valenzuela; sister, Thelma & husband, Earl Mellott; brother, Glen & wife, Colleen Cooper; grandchildren, Emmanuel, Meri Ruth & husband BJ, Michelle & husband Josh, Jason, Mikki, Matthew, Olivia and Jocelyn; great grandchildren, Mikayla, Aiden, Rylee, Mikah, Jeshua, Zane and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his daughter Anna Cooper-Alexander and grandson Kevin Valenzuela.

A public viewing will be held on Tuesday, November 13th from 4-8pm at El Camino Memorial Sorrento Valley. Mass will be on Wednesday, November 13th at 10am at St. Catherine Laboure followed by Military Honors at Miramar National Cemetery from 11:30-12pm.