James W. Cooper, Jr. 89, passed away December 20, 2013, in his home at Emeritus Senior Living in Rockford, IL. He was born on February 5, 1924, in Corning IA, the second of seven children to James and Charlotte (Teal) Cooper. He grew up on a farm outside of Newton, IA, attended Armstrong Country School through the eighth grade and went on to graduate from Newton High School. Jim worked for the Newton Coal Co. before enlisting in the Navy where he spent 22 months in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He returned to Russell, IA after being discharged from the Navy, where he met and married the love of his life, Aletha Jean Goltry, on May 28, 1949. Jim worked for the Veterans Association until 1952, when he began farming. In the fall of 1954, his son, James Thomas was born.
He was elected Lucas County Soil District Commissioner in 1958, serving for 5 terms for a total of 30 years. During his time as Commissioner, he worked to procure a meal site and transportation for Lucas County senior citizens as well as paving the road from Russell to the Wayne County line. He was a member of the American Legion where he served in all offices of the Charlie Clark Post #308 and in 1964, he was elected District Commander of the 5th District. Jim was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 1968, serving for 13 years. In 1983 he was elected State Representative from District 67 and served 3 terms. Jim was also a member of; Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, ZA-GA-ZIG Shrine, Iowa Order of the Odd Fellows, Lions Club, Farm Bureau and Russell Faith United Methodist Church.
Jim and Jean were avid campers, joining the Red Haw Campers in 1980, and enjoyed all the good times they had spending many winters in Arizona. Jim loved playing his guitar and singing Blue Grass.
Survived by his wife, Jean Cooper; granddaughter, Evin Cooper; sisters, Bonnie Gerry and Mary Jo (Johnny) Polo; host of nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his son, James Thomas, brother's Larry, Robert, and John and sister Lilian.
A service will be held in the spring at the Russell Faith United Methodist Church. May 3rd Services were held at the Russell Faith United Methodist Church at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon for friends and family followed the services. In lieu of flowers, the family requested that any memorial to Jim be given to either the Russell Faith United Methodist Church or the Russell Legion post 308. The Cremation Society of Illinois assisted the family.