Charles Calvin Cooper, 74, 40-year resident of Oak Harbor, died at his home Jan. 10, 2005, following a lengthy illness.

Mr. Cooper was born in New Boston, Ohio, Sept. 25, 1930, to William Cooper and Betty (Dielhman) Cooper. He was raised in Otway, Ohio, and graduated from high school there. He was married to Betty Brookshire on June 5, 1954, in Atlanta, Ga. Charles entered the U.S. Navy, and served for 20 years, retiring as a BMI. He served in Vietnam from December 1967 to 1968.

Charles and Betty had been residents of Oak Harbor since 1965. He was employed by Tesch Masonry Construction for 20 years and Duffield Construction in Burlington for six years. Charles loved the outdoors, and enjoyed hunting and fishing, and sharing with children about the joys of these activities.

Charles is survived by his wife Betty, at home; one son, William James Cooper, of Tuckerton, N.J.; two sisters, Ruth Webber of Florida and Juanita Williamson of Ohio; one step-grandson, Joshua Filarski of Ohio; also, numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. He was preceded in death by eight brothers and sisters.

A memorial service will be Saturday, Jan. 15, at 3 p.m., at Burley Funeral Chapel, Pastor Steve Morningstar officiating, with full military honors under the auspices of NAS Whidbey Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 557 Roy St., Seattle, WA 98109.