BELMONT — Joseph F. Cooper, 63, died suddenly on July 19, 2016, at Waldo County General Hospital.

Joe was born Sept. 24, 1952, in Searsmont, to Elwood and Ruth (Jewett) Cooper. His education was completed in Searsmont and Belfast schools and he graduated from Unity College with his degree. Joe worked for Robbins Lumber in Searsmont for 27 years, retiring after a near-fatal motor vehicle accident. After recovering from the accident, Joe worked for Belfast Industries and later for Little River Apparel.

Joe was active in Boy Scouts of America, earning his Eagle Scout badge and, later, his Order of the Arrow appointment. He was also awarded the Silver Beaver. He was an active member of the Sons of the American Legion, where he held various offices on the Post, State and National levels. For several years, he was an active volunteer at Togus VA Hospital in Augusta.

Joe is survived by his companion of 15 years, Paula Barron; his son, Scott; his daughter, Selina McKinney; his sisters, Carolyn Boivin and Mary Glidden; his companion's children, Lukas, Melissa and Elizabeth; and the mother of his children, Karen Cooper. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Arianna and Leland, Ashleigh, Kelsie and Tyler, Sabrina, Zack, Laurie, Teayra, Oden, Laison, Lawrence and Kaitlyn; and his great-grandchildren, Emmalia, Kohner and Gunner.

Burial will be at Hunt Memorial Cemetery on Saturday, July 30, at 11 a.m., for family and close friends.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held Sunday, Aug. 7, at 2 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Belfast. All are welcome.

Arrangements are under the care of Riposta Funeral Home.