David L. Cooper

David L. Cooper, 73, of Chatham, formerly of New Burnside, IL, died on Sunday, May 1, 2016 at his home. David was born August 8, 1942 in Maunie, IL the son of Harry and Addie Stuky Cooper. He married Robin Walker on May 7, 1962. David was a 1960 graduate of Carmi Township High School and obtained his bachelor's degree in 1964 and his master's degree in 1967 from Southern Illinois University Carbondale School of Forestry. After graduation, David worked for the U.S. Forest Service for three years at the Shawnee National Forest in Murphysboro, IL. In 1970, he went on to work for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources as a district forester. After 31 years of service with DNR, he retired as an administrator in 2001. He found his career challenging, but very rewarding. Through the years, he worked with a lot of great people and made lifelong friends. David enjoyed hunting, fishing, bird watching, and the great outdoors. He was a diehard Chicago Cubs fan and a devoted SIU Saluki supporter. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Robin Cooper of Chatham; two daughters, Claire (husband, James) Tapscott and Anne (husband, Shane) Flammini, all of Springfield; two grandchildren, Sabina and Jade Tapscott, both of Springfield; one brother, Gary Cooper of Carmi; one nephew, Stacy Cooper of Fairfield; one niece, Gina Miller of Carmi; many cousins; and his two hunting dogs, Scout! and Little Bit. Cremation care was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. Memorial contributions may be made to: The Nature Conservancy, 4245 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203 or the American Cancer Society, 675 E. Linton, Springfield, IL 62703.