James Earl Cooper, 97 years of age, completed his Christian faith journey on January 28, 2018, stepped into his forever home and was welcomed by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Formerly, Jim resided at 706 Franklin in Ludington, but for the past 15 years received compassionate care at Tendercare of Ludington.  Jim was born in Ludington on June 3, 1920 to Robert and Emma Augusta (Wickert), and graduated from Ludington High School in 1938.  He volunteered for military service (Army Air Corps) on December 16, 1941 and was honorably discharged on December 8, 1945.  He married the love of his life, Alice Youngquist, on August 26, 1944 and she preceded him in death on June 22, 2003.

Jim is survived by his son Zane (Marilyn) of Bear Lake, his daughter Pamela J. Racey and her sons Jordan (Katie) and Tyler all of Ludington, and his son Wade of Medford, NJ and his children James Reid, Allison, and Luke all of New Jersey.  He is also survived by his sister Bobbe Lou Lindstrom of Florida and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jim worked as a machinist and as a gunsmith for Star Watch Case, Pederson's Gun Shop and Harrington Tool Company.  As a gunsmith for Pederson's, and later in his own gun shop, Jim was known throughout the Midwest for his ability to repair and build custom rifles.

As a faithful servant of God, Jim held many ministry positions and volunteered at Washington Avenue Baptist Church, Trinity Evangelical Church, and Center Lake Bible Camp.

Jim's favorite past times were reading and studying the Word of God, deer hunting, hiking in the Ludington State Park, and in his younger years, motorcycling.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff of Tendercare and to Sandy of Great Lakes Hospice for making Jim's life and transition to heaven comfortable, and for treating him with dignity and love.

The Celebration of Jim's life will be held at 1:00 PM, Friday, February 2, 2018, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel, 309 S. Washington Ave., Ludington, with the family receiving friends at from noon until time of services.  The Reverend Ryan White of Cornerstone Baptist Church will officiate.  A private interment will be held at Lakeview Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Cornerstone Baptist Church Food Pantry.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com