Donald L Cooper

September 4, 1948 – April 3, 2025

Donald Cooper of Hudson, Florida, passed away on April 3 at the age of 76 after a two-year struggle with cancer. He was born on September 4, 1948, in Milwaukee, the firstborn child of Wayne and Letah Cooper. He grew up in Escanaba and graduated from Escanaba High School in 1966 where he was a proud member of the school’s golf team.

After graduation, Don enlisted in the U.S. Army where he spent his deployment in East Jordan, where he was assigned as a surgical technician. After being discharged, Don attended Bryant and Stratton College in Milwaukee, earning his degree in accounting. He began his working career with Continental Can Company as an Accountant. That job took him to New Jersey for a time, and he later moved back to Michigan to work for Crown Cork in Stevensville. In the mid 90’s, Don relocated to Holiday, Florida. In 2000, Don married Margaret Widman - Juanes, and she preceded him in death in 2021.

Don worked in a variety of jobs during those years, including several management positions in the grocery business. In more recent times, Don could often be found “hanging out” with his many friends and enjoying life at the Moose and Eagles Lodge. He was a very patriotic veteran with a passion for his country and his fellow veterans.

Don will be remembered as a fun-loving man who could always be counted on to be there for those in need. He was also a loving father/grandfather to his stepdaughter, Linda Norris, and granddaughter, Binaka Norris, whose accomplishments he frequently mentioned with pride to his friends and family.

In addition to his wife, Marge Cooper, Don was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Letah Cooper and his brother, Steve Cooper. Survivors include his daughter, Linda (Doug) Norris; granddaughter, Binaka Norris; and sisters Donna Fleury; Shirley Gollach; Judy (Manuel) Moguel; and Roni (Allan) Ogren; as well as his very dear best friend, Nicole Miller, with whom he enjoyed many laughs and special times.

The family would like to say a special thank you to Gulfside Hospice for the thoughtful, loving care that they provided to Don.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Gulfside Hospice, 2061 Collier Parkway Land O Lakes, Florida 34639.

Meadowlawn Funeral Home in New Port Richey is in charge of the arrangements per Don’s wishes.

A celebration of life will be held in June at Hudson Grill, date to be determined. The family would like friends to join us in toasting Don’s life with his favorite, Jack Daniels Honey.