INDIANAPOLIS – Edward Neil “Spike” Cooper Jr., 85, passed away at 11:30 PM on Sunday, February 19, 2023, at his residence. He was born February 26, 1937 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late Edward Neil Sr. and Anna Ignatius Brady Cooper. Edward graduated from Emmerich Manual High School in Indianapolis on September 21, 1954.

Edward was an honorably discharged veteran of the United State Marine Corps where he proudly served his country for nearly 20 years. He was a highly respected and devoted veteran of the Vietnam War. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant on August 1, 1966. He completed four enlistments and received many commendations while serving.

Edward was awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic achievements during Operation Sierra. On December 29, 1966 while serving as a platoon sergeant in the Republic of Vietnam, Edward dove into hazardous water to save a drowning Marine. He assisted the Marine across 100 meters of rice paddy, under constant hostile fire to a relatively safe position where medical aid could be administered. Edward was presented the Navy Commendation Medal for several reasons, the most noteworthy were his actions on January 26, 1971 while in the Republic of Vietnam when one of his Marines was seriously wounded by the detonation of an enemy antipersonnel mine. Edward reacted instantly with complete disregard for his own safety. He moved across a mine laden field and carried the wounded Marine to safety. He then located and disarmed several additional mines. Edward proudly received a Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal (NDSM), Navy and Marine Corps Service Medal (NCM), Sharpshooter Badge with Pistol component, Expert Badge with Rifle component and 6 Good Conduct Medals. He was honorably discharged on September 30, 1973 while stationed at Camp Pendleton, California.

Edward was united in marriage to the late Dorothy Ditsworth on October 2, 1976 in Carlsbad, California. Edward attended Palomar College in San Marcos, California where he studied Laws for Security Personnel and graduated on January 28, 1977. He was a retired United States Marine and Security Officer. Additionally, he was a bus driver for Perry Township School District for many years. Edward was a member of the NRA, American Legion and VFW. He loved spending time with his family and shopping.

Edward is survived by his daughter, Suzanne Elizabeth Pritchett (Brandon); sons, Ricky and Joseph Cooper; step-daughters, Kandee Griezer and Kelly Kline; sisters, Jean, Mary and Saundra; brother, Tim; grandchildren: Dillon, Brent, Sumi, Kimyet, Natasha, Joseph, Jeanine, Eddie, Tonaka, Shawna, Lacey, Ryan, Rosebud, Beau, Kandee, Ben and Rachel; great grandchildren: Cole, Rhea, Dante, Lilianna, Tamiah, Jalik, Javon, Whaylen, Johnathan, Edward, Kaleeal, Roman, Kira, Amirrah and Kimiett; and great great grandchildren: Thomas, Cheyanne, Xavior, Brinya, Jeffrey, Savana, Shelby, Tag, Shyla, Kimiet, Victoria, Indiana, Emerson, Quinn, Ian, Victoria, Nickholas, Dillon and Buxton. In addition to his parents and wife, Edward was proceeded in death by his son, Edward Cooper III; sisters, Geraldine and hellen; and brother, Robert.

Edwards family will receive friends from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 925 East Hanna Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227. The memorial service will follow at 1:00 PM with Brother David McColley officiating and military honors will be performed.

Edward's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click Here to view the service.

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