Kenneth Dean Cooper, Sr Obituary (2025)

Kenneth Dean Cooper passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on July 31, 2025. Ken was born on August 4, 1937, in Independence Missouri, to Margaret and Harold Cooper. He graduated from Yakima High School and went on to attend Washington State College, where he earned his degree in Business. Years later Ken taught ROTC at UW. After college, Ken answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Army, where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Over his distinguished 20 year military career Ken attended Special Forces training and was a Green Beret. He served with honor and bravery, earning three Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, and various other medals for his heroic actions, including saving his battalion in combat. While attending WSU, Ken met the love of his life, Constance "Connie" Bauer. They married on February 20, 1960 and together embraced the adventure of military life. Their first post was fort Dix, New Jersey, where their daughter, Carah, was born in 1962. While stationed in Okinawa, Japan, they welcomed their son, Kenneth Jr., in 1965. The family was stationed in many locations throughout the United States, with their final posting being Ft. Shafter, Hawaii, where they spent two years enjoying the ocean waves, exploring Polynesian culture, and making cherished memories. After retiring from the Army, Ken and Connie returned to Ritzville, Washington to fulfill his childhood dream of being a farmer. They learned the ins and outs of wheat farming, swine raising, and gardening while restoring and modernizing the old farmhouse. When their children were grown, Ken changed careers, and the couple moved to Yakima where he worked as a civilian at the Yakima Training Center. He built new friendships and enjoyed an active life. Ken had many passions outside of his military service. He enjoyed camping, skiing, working outdoors, and spending time with family. He especially loved watching his grandchildren grow and thrive, whether at a baseball field, the pool, on the slopes, or during family gatherings. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Margaret Cooper, his beloved wife, Connie, and his son Ken Jr. He is survived by his daughter, Carah and Craig Heesh; his daughter in law, Kimberly Cooper, grandchildren, Nikkole, Ashley, K.C., Kaitlyn, and Andrew; greatgrandchildren, Phoebe, Chevy, Ellamae and Evelyn; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. The Cooper family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Yakima Memorial Hospice staff, caregivers Sheena and Isabell who supported Ken and his family during his final days. A Viewing will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025 from 36pm at Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11am at Tahoma cemetery, followed by a Celebration Of Ken's Life at the Elks in Selah. In lieu of flowers a donation to Wounded Warriors Foundation or Yakima Memorial Foundation in care of hospice services. Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory is taking care of the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.