Edith Cooper

Edith Emelia Cooper, also known as "Mama Bear" or "Grandma Coop", was born September 21, 1915 in rural Clinton to Gust and Anna (Anderson) Carlson. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Faith. She was united in marriage to Melvin "Jim" Cooper on October 19, 1935. To this union six children were born. The first was still born, next came Connie, Merlin "Mickey", Harold, Shirley and Karen. The family made their home on a farm in rural Clinton. In 1961, they sold the farm and moved to Clinton. Edith and Jim were members of Elim Lutheran Church, where she was active in circle. Soon thereafter, she began working at the Clinton Good Samaritan Center, where she was employed for 23 years. She retired at the age of 72 years. Jim passed away January 19, 1976. Edith continued to live in Clinton until 1997, when she sold her house and moved to Grandview Apartments in Morris, to be closer to her family. After a few years, she moved to West Wind Village in Morris, where she continued to live until the time of her death.



Edith will be remembered for her love of family. She was a wonderful cook and baker. She always had lunch ready when friends and family stopped by. She loved to play cards and was an avid reader. She also enjoyed singing and playing the concertina. It was a brighter day in heaven on Saturday when Edith went home to be with her maker.



Edith died on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at West Wind Village in Morris, having lived to reach the age of 92 years.



She is survived by three daughters: Connie (Mel) Wohlers of Morris, Shirley Cooper of Richfield and Karen Nerison of Bloomington; one son: Harold (Sandy) Cooper of Appleton; daughter-in-law: Carol Cooper of New Ulm; ten grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one sister: Agnes (Kenny) Christeson of Clinton and sister-in-law: Jenny Carlson of Ortonville. She was preceded in death by her husband; one daughter at birth; one son: Mickey; one great-great-grandson; eight brothers; four sisters and a host of many friends.



Pallbearers for the service are Edith's grandchildren: Kevin Wohlers, Diane Gregg, Doug Wohlers, Donny Wohlers, Keith Cooper, Gary Cooper, Donna Vosberg, Jimmy Cooper, Kristen Nerison and Joshua Nerison. Honorary pallbearers are Edith's great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Kathy Moberg will serve as organist for the service with Ann Nelson and Sherwin and Pam Linton providing special music. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements.