Donald Lee “Don” Cooper, 89 of Shell Knob, Mo. passed away Wednesday, March 11, at his home.

He was born April 14, 1936 in Shell Knob, the son of Arl and Ida (Whisman) Cooper, who preceded him in death.

Also preceding him in death was his wife, Sonja Sanders, and sister, Penny Cooper Bailey.

Survivors include his son, Russell Arl Cooper of Shell Knob; daughter, Julia Donetta Cooper Riggs and husband John of Blue Springs, Mo.; sister, Arlene Garland and husband Sanford of Shell Knob; six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

He graduated from Cassville High School with the Class of 1954 and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy. After his military service, he devoted 28 years to protecting and serving others as a firefighter with the North Kansas City Fire Department until his retirement. While working as a firefighter, he also ran his own business pouring concrete, as well as helping his mom run her farm whenever time would allow. 

After retirement from North Kansas City Fire Department, he moved back to Shell Knob and became a full-time cattle farmer. He was a member of Lohmer Full Gospel. 

Services were held Monday, March 16, 2026 at Lohmer Full Gospel in Shell Knob. Pastor David Donaldson conducted the services. Burial with military honors was at Painter Cemetery in Shell Knob, Mo.