Bill Cooper

William A. “Bill” Cooper, age 75, of Plainwell, MI, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025. He was born on April 4, 1950, in Plainwell, the son of Sherman and Helen Cooper.

Bill was a proud graduate of Plainwell High School. On July 5, 1977, he married the love of his life, Jeanne Darrow, and together they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and deep devotion to their family.

Bill honorably served his country in the United States Army Corps of Engineers during the Vietnam Conflict from 1970 to 1971—an experience that shaped his lifelong sense of duty and perseverance.

Following his service, he dedicated more than four decades to his career as a millwright, working at Plainwell Paper for thirty-one years, and at Menasha and the USG Otsego Paper Mill. He was known for his strong work ethic, steady dependability, and willingness to lend a hand wherever it was needed.

More than anything, Bill cherished time spent with his family. His greatest joy came from the moments shared around the table, in the yard, or simply in one another’s company. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose presence brought warmth, steadiness, and unconditional care.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Jeanne Cooper; his daughters and sons-in-law, Dan and Lisa Cox and Calvin Bragg and Molly VanKeuren-Bragg; his grandchildren, Jordan and Haylee Cox, Aaron Cox, Ashli Cox, Lily VanKeuren, Ryan VanKeuren, Andrew Bragg, Morgan Bragg, Noah Bragg, and Ryan Bragg; and his great-grandchildren, Archer Cox and Benjamin Cox. His family will forever hold his memory close.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions made in Bill’s honor may be directed to Christian Neighbors of Plainwell, MI, a cause meaningful to him and his family.

In accordance with his family’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, with a time for visiting beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 3:00 p.m. at Friendship Wesleyan Church, 1285 102nd Avenue, Plainwell, MI 49080.

Bill will be remembered for his service, his integrity, and his unwavering love for those he held dear. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the lives he quietly touched.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Bill’s guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Cooper family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 120 South Woodhams Street, Plainwell, MI 49080. 269-685-5881.