David Cooley
July 14, 1922 — October 21, 2010
David D. Cooley, 88, of Clarks Hill, died at 4:15 p.m. October 21, 2010, at his son's residence after a prolonged illness.
Born July 14th 1922 at the family home in Stockland, IL, he was the son of the late Michael and Marie Donahue Cooley. He was a 1942 graduate of Freeland Park (IN) High School, where he played basketball and ran track. He served in the Marines during World War II.
On January 22, 1966, he married Jean A. Rausch in Lafayette. She preceded him in death on August 2, 2008.
Mr. Cooley was a lifelong farmer. He farmed in the Benton County area, prior to moving to rural Clarks Hill in 1976.
Surviving is a son, Jim Cooley (wife: Lisa) of Lafayette, along with two grandsons Evan and Luke. He is also survived by his 4 sisters: Rita Lundgren of Salt Lake City, Ruthann Wolfe of West Lafayette (husband: Harvey), Rosemary Budreau of Earl Park, and Jan Flora of Delphi (husband: Carol). He is survived by one brother, Paul Cooley, of Kissimmee, FL. He is preceded in death by brothers Bernie, Norbert, Kenny, Richard, and Joseph, along with sisters Aletha Reifel and Helen Budreau. His sister-in-law, Lorraine Cooley of Woodland, IL also survives. Mr. Cooley is survived by two of his wife's siblings: brother-in-law Bob Rausch of Lafayette and sister-in-law Sister Blanche Rausch of Mishawaka.
He was a member of St. Lawrence Church, and American Legion Post 11. Mr. Cooley enjoyed playing Euchre and attending his grandsons' sporting events. He was a regular participant in the State Corn Husking Competition, frequently qualifying for the national competition (most recently in 2009, at 87 years of age). He has resided with his son and family since his wife's death, but has remained active on his farm. Mr. Cooley was able to ride in the combine with his friend and fellow farmer, David Virgin, only two weeks ago, to bring in his last harvest of corn and soybeans.
Friends may call at the HAHN-GROEBER FUNERAL HOME, 1104 Columbia St. from the Rosary at 4 PM until 7 PM Sunday. Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Monday, St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Fr. Andrew DeKeyser officiating. Interment St. Boniface Cemetery with American Legion Military rites. If friends desire, memorials may be made to St. Elizabeth Hospice or St. Lawrence School. Memories and condolences may be left at www.hahngroeberfuneralhome.com.