Janet Ruth Cooper
JANET RUTH COOPER
Janet Ruth Cooper, age 78, passed away peacefully on Jan. 21 at Rosetta Assisted Living in Missoula. She was born to Kenneth and Alice Parker on Nov. 26, 1938, in West Allis, Wisc.
During her full life, Janet had many vocations, starting as a candy striper in high school at Mercy Hospital, which began her love of the medical field. She always dreamt of being a doctor, but this was a difficult endeavor as a young, single mother, so she went on to enjoy a fulfilling career as a medical social worker in Merced, Calif. and Beaver Dam, Wisc.
She married Raymond Cooper in 1977 and moved to the farm in Ronan. Together, Janet and Ray enjoyed many adventures, traveling the U.S. in their RV. They owned and operated the Starlite Motel in Ronan from 1990-2000. Janet loved animals, family BBQ’s and boating on Flathead Lake.
Janet was extremely creative. She loved to cook, garden, craft, sew and in her later years, took up oil painting. She was so proud to present one of her paintings as a gift to her grandson, Adam, for his wedding in 2013. Her family was her greatest joy. She was always there for a shoulder to cry on and lend a helping hand, and for this, they will be forever grateful.
Janet is survived by her husband of 40 years,; Raymond Cooper, (Missoula); daughter, Jackie Stermitz (Lolo); son, Shawn Cooper, (Helena); Step-children, Daryl Cooper, (partner Mary Rogers), Lynn Cooper, (wife Marilyn), Randy Cooper, (wife Denise) and Sheri Lien, (husband Mike); sister, Cheryl Tindall; brother, Michael Parker; 15 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
Janet was preceded in death by many beloved family members and pets, with whom she has now reunited in the hereafter.
The family will be holding a private gathering to celebrate Janet’s life. She’ll be there in spirit – her only wish being - they’re all happy and joyful in their remembrance of her – and that there’s cheesecake.
Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.shriderthompson.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.