Philip E. Cooper, 78

Jan. 28, 1933 - March 5, 2011

Philip was born to Charles and Elizabeth Cooper of Hoquiam, Wash.

After serving in the Air Force he continued his service to the country in the Air National Guard until 1961. He moved to Spokane shortly after leaving the Air Force. He did his Air Guard service at Fairchild AFB. He then moved to Idaho where he worked for the remainder of his career in the trucking industry. He wore many hats when it came to the big trucks; if it had 18 wheels he could build it, fix it or drive it; sometimes, much to his dismay, he did all three to the same truck.

Affectionately know as "Cooper" or "Coop" to family and friends, he could be found at a local truck stop on any given day sharing coffee and war stories with longtime friends. He was a good friend to many and would gladly give his last $20 or the shirt off his back if you were a buddy in need. To know Phil was to know one of the nicest men around; if you were in trouble you could always count on Phil to come and help in any way he could. If it was money or mechanic work on a car or truck "Cooper" was your man.

Phil was preceded in death by his children, Patricia, Philip (Butch) and Daphne.

Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Irene Egbert Cooper; children Janie Chavez, Betty Cooper, Phyllis Cooper; stepchildren Debra Christensen and Doris Moyer; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Graveside service with military honors were held Friday, March 11, 2011, at Tahoma National Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to your local Veterans Administration Hospital or Alzheimer's association.