Charles Ray Cooper, age 66, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas, with his devoted wife and brother at his side.

Charles was born on November 29, 1958, in Anthony, Kansas, to Jim and Marvella (Gilchrist) Cooper. He was raised in Bluff City, KS, where he attended grade school before graduating from Chaparral High School. From a young age, Charles showed a strong aptitude for Industrial Arts, a passion that would guide him through his life and career.

Following high school, Charles proudly served his country in the United States Navy for six years, spending most of his service stationed in Hawaii. It was during this time that he developed expertise in foundry work, skills that would shape his professional path after his military service. Upon returning home, Charles worked in the aircraft industry, primarily in metalwork, applying his talents across various roles over the years.

On May 29, 1993, Charles married the love of his life, Pamala Hunt, in Wichita, Kansas. Together, they built a life in Harper, KS, where they raised three children. In 2003, the family moved to Mulvane, KS, where Charles continued to work until his health led to early retirement at the age of 55.

In retirement, Charles cherished time spent with his grandchildren, attending their activities and celebrating their milestones. He was an avid fan of motorcycles, fast cars, science fiction, and had a special fondness for collecting Garfield memorabilia and other sci-fi novelties.      He was a man of curiosity, humor, and deep love for his family.

Charles was preceded in death by his father, Jim Cooper, and his sister, Dulcenia Showalter & brother-in-law Curtis Showalter.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Pam Cooper; his three children: Kelsey Hazel (Saige) of Anthony, KS; Jessi Wineinger (Andy) of Norwich, KS; and David Smithhisler of Wichita, KS; his beloved mother Marvella Christensen (Ron); brother J.R. Cooper (Anna); and six grandchildren: Max, Jillian, Alex, and Wesley Wineinger, and Austin and Kaiden Hazel. He is also survived by his niece Kyla Norman (Chad); nephew Aaron Showalter (Erin); three great-nieces, one great-nephew, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Charles will be remembered for his steady presence, his unwavering support for his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 7, 2025 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Anthony with Pastor Kent Olds officiating.  Burial with Military Honors will follow in the Attica Cemetery.  Friends may view and register from 9:30 a.m. until the service Monday morning.

Memorials in memory of Charles may be made to the Charles Cooper Memorial Fund and may be sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Home, 602 E. Main St., Anthony, KS 67003.