Donald Dean Cooper , 88 years old, of Huxley, TX, died on September 11,2024. Born on June 2, 1936, in Montgomery County, Kansas, he was the son of the late Charles E. and Edna L. (Harmon) Cooper.

Donald's life was marked by a spirit of adventure and a dedication to service. He spent 40 years as a truck driver, logging 4 million miles without a chargeable accident, a testament to his professionalism and dedication to safety.

He and his wife had a farm in Missouri and raised alfafa, cattle, feeder pigs and sheep. He was transferred to KC KS and moved to Independence, Mo., then moved to Calico Rock, AR and raised ostriches, where he became an avid fisherman.  After moving to Huxley area, he turned to welding and building their home and helping those around him when needed.

Donald's zest for life was evident in his diverse hobbies and interests. He was a pilot, a parachute instructor and jumpmaster in the KC, MO. area, a scuba diver involved in water rescue unit and volunteer fireman in Missouri. His love for the outdoors extended to water skiing, snow skiing, hunting and fishing. In his later years, he particularly enjoyed fishing.  He was raised in the masonic lodge in October, 1960, he was a member of Warren Lodge No. 74, Keytesville, MO. and Sam Houston No. 32, Shelbyville, TX.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia J Bettes Cooper; children: William L, Cooper, Gate City, VA; Philip B. Pixler of Salina, KS; Tina D. and husband Sean Brandt of Lee's Summit, MO and Theresa Bowlin of Independence, MO. Sister-in-law, Darlene Cooper; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, as well as long-time friends and neighbors. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Carlos and Robert, sister, Betty Cooper McCampbell, step-daughter, Nina L. Pixler Ferestad and niece, Cheryl McCampbell Bangs.

Donald requested to be cremated with no service, a life celebration is planned for the future. The family suggests that contributions in Donald's memory be made to Shriner's Children's Hospital of Shreveport, LA. Watson and Sons of Center, TX are assisting the family with arrangements.