Mrs. Arlene Ruth Cooper's Obituary
Arlene Ruth (Punter) Cooper died on November 17, 2015 at the age of 87 after a brief illness. She was born on January 8, 1928 in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota to Charles and Dale Winifred Punter. She had two older siblings, George and Winifred. Her father was a minister, and the family spent time living in Michigan, Iowa, and Minnesota. An accomplished musician, she attended Iowa State Teacher’s College and graduated with a degree in Music and English. She then taught both English and Music at a local school for several years. She later moved to Texas and worked for Trans-Texas Airlines, where she met her husband of 53 years, Bob Cooper. They were married in 1952, finished building their home on 6 acres, and raised 4 children. She was a very active wife and mother, serving at school on the PTA, hosting scout events, and contributing to her community. She was a gifted gardener and cook, and the family spent many summers camping throughout Texas. She and Bob loved hosting Saturday evening dinners for her children and grandchildren for many years. She was very active in the Minnetex Civic Association, producing a newsletter and assisting in monthly meetings for over 15 years. She is preceded in death by her husband Bob Cooper, her parents Charles and Dale Punter, her brother George Punter, and her sister Winifred “Freddie” Skellenger. She is survived by her brothers-in-law Virgil Skellenger and Joseph Cooper; sister-in-law Waudell Punter; sons Clifford Cooper and spouse Barbara, John Cooper and spouse Melanie, Patrick Cooper and spouse Mary, and daughter Dale (Cooper) Nguyen. Survivors also include nieces and nephews Mark Skellenger, Paul Skellenger, Scott Punter, and Dawn Punter, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 10 AM at SouthPark Funeral Home. Visitation will start 1 hour prior to service.
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