Charles R. Cooper

HARTFORD CITY, IN-- Charles R. Cooper, 77, of Hartford City, passed away Saturday afternoon, October 3, 2026 at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie.

Born in Wabash, Indiana on August 21, 1949, he was one of four children of the now late Charles Edward and Margory Bernice (Watson) Cooper and was a graduate of Wabash High School, class of 1967.

Charles enlisted in the Army National Guard, serving two and a half years. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving over two and a half years, being discharged in 1974 from Grissom AFB. He re-enlisted in the Army National Guard and served another two years, before his service time concluded in March of 1979.

A welder by trade, Charles worked at Wabash Alloys many years and also for Thermofiber before his retirement.

In addition to being a proud veteran of the United States Military, Charles enjoyed hunting and fishing. But, he especially had a love for his dogs, as well as all forms of guns and knives.

On January 28, 2008, he married Bonnie L. “Lesa”(Weaver) in Lagro, Indiana. And they’ve made their home in the Lake Mohee area, in Blackford County, since 2023.

He leaves behind his loving wife of over eighteen years, Lesa; three sons: Brian Cooper of Marion, Chris (Angela) Cooper of Andrews and Matthew Cooper of Wabash. Five grandchildren: Brittany, Brennan, Brayden, Jillian and Bailey. His sister, Mary Catherine Cooper; brother-in-law: Ronnie (Sue); brother-in-law, Chuck; sister-in-law, Shirley Key; brother-in-law, Ed Mackerson. Special nephew, Ronnie and special nieces: Kyla, Brittany, Shannon, Shardae and Shyla

In addition to his parents, a brother, Roger Dale Cooper, his sister, Charlotte Ann Buck, and brother-in-law, Mark A. Weaver precede him in death,

Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2026 in the Waters Funeral Home, Hartford City, with Pastor Becky Milligan presiding. Military Honors will be conducted by the U.S. Air Force and the Delaware County Veterans Organization at the conclusion of the service.

Cremation will follow and interment to be held privately.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Wabash County Humane Society, 810 Manchester Ave., Wabash, IN 46992.