James H. Cooper
September 10, 1930 — September 02, 2025
James H. Cooper, 94, passed away at home on September 2nd, 2025. James was born on September 10th, 1930, in Long Beach, California, to Harold and Leota Cooper.
James grew up in Alden, Minnesota, with his two brothers, Richard and Paul. He attended and graduated from Alden Consolidated School in 1948. He moved to Des Moines in 1950. He had three children: daughters, Melanie Vivone and Barbara Moeller, and son, Kevin Cooper. James worked in Iowa Realty’s Southside Office as manager for several years before establishing Cooper Realty and Construction Company. He and his wife, Allene, owned and operated the company together. James also served as a past President of the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines Iowa.
James was a hard-working and talented man. He was a pilot, enjoyed boating and golf, and loved classic cars. James was a past member of First Federated Church and shared his deep love and faith for the Lord with his family and friends. He had six grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. James and his wife, Allene, celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary this year. He will be greatly missed.
James is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers; his sons-in-law, Mike Vivone, and Greg Moeller; his daughter-in-law, Jan Cooper; and his grandson, Justin McDowell.
Per James’s wishes no services will be held. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Barry Nulph
12/13/2025
Jim was always a good friend to me and he was a good builder. He preceded me as President of the Des Moines Home Builders Association (seems like a 100 years ago), and I knew him to be a gentleman. Whenever we did get to talk through the later years, it was always a very pleasant conversation.
He was if I remember correctly, a Captain when he was in military service and that strength and perseverance showed through the years as home builders in general had to weather many financial storms.
Jim and I always seemed to have the same sense of humor also which can help you survive. B.
Dawn E Arnold
09/05/2025
I am So Sorry to hear of My Uncles passing. My Condolences to his Family and Friends. RIP !!