Donald "Pete" Lee Cooper, 94, of Parkersburg, West Virginia, passed away on March 21, 2026. He was born May 28, 1931, in Pettyville. Pete was a steadfast, dignified, and devoted man whose long life was marked by service, hard work, and deep love for his family.
Pete served in the United States Army and carried that sense of duty throughout his life. He worked for Dowler and Cooper Transmission and for 19 years with Benson Truck Bodies, and finished his career at Pifers—still working at 92 years old—an enduring example of commitment and pride in a job well done.
A man of steady faith, Pete attended Big Tygart Church. In his free time, he enjoyed NASCAR and dirt track racing, following the sport with the same loyal enthusiasm he brought to everything he loved.
Pete is survived by his sons, Kenneth (Kathleen) Cooper of Parkersburg, West Virginia, and Donald (Tammy) Cooper of Parkersburg, West Virginia; and his daughter, JoAnn (Carlton) Young of Arkansas. He is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lily “Mickey,” his beloved companion of 65 years.
Visitation will be held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 1934 Dupont Road, Parkersburg, West Virginia, on March 26, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Funeral Service will be held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home on March 27, 2026, at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, 1934 Dupont Road, Parkersburg, West Virginia, on March 27, 2026.
The family extends sincere thanks to Amedysis hospice, Bridgette, and Ashley; to Bensons Employee; and to the Pifers service center employees and owners for their care, kindness, and support.
