Peter Dudley “Pete” Cooper, age 90, passed away Oct. 8, 2026. Pete was born on Aug. 4, 1936, in Jefferson City, MO, and was raised in Illinois by his parents, Guy and Lucy Cooper. Following in his family’s footsteps, Pete became the third generation to work for the family-owned business, Cooper-Jarrett Trucking, where he served as terminal manager.
Pete proudly served his country in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge for his service.
In 1980, fate brought Pete and Janice together at a VFW dance that neither had originally intended to attend. The couple married on March 3, 1985, and shared more than 41 wonderful years of marriage.
Pete also had a special connection to Cooper Funeral Home, where he assisted families with pre-need arrangements and occasionally served as a driver for funeral services. His willingness to lend a helping hand reflected his caring nature and desire to serve others during meaningful moments in their lives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Lucy Cooper; brother, Robert Cooper; stepson, Fred Caudill.
Pete is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Janice Cooper of the home; daughter, Amanda Barnes; son, Guy Cooper; stepson, Eric Caudill; daughters-in-law, Lisa Caudill and Merrie Caudill; granddaughters, Ashley Hensley, Brittany Lehman, and Christa Vilaysing; grandsons, Dayton Caudill and Robert Caudill; three great-granddaughters; six great-grandsons; along with other loving family members and friends.
Wake Service will be 7 pm, Oct. 22, 2026 at St. Benedict Catholic Church with Father David Sure officiating. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 am, Oct. 23, 2026 at St. Benedict Catholic Church with Very Reverend Christopher Brashears officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh.
