Marilyn Joyce Cooper, 86, of Hayden, Idaho, passed away peacefully at North Idaho Hospice after a brief illness Feb. 11, 2023.

Marilyn was born to Karl J Eckman and Bessie Bell (Willard) Eckman on Oct. 9, 1936, in Pennsylvania.

At the age of 15, Marilyn married Ronald Harvey and welcomed her first son, Michael. The marriage ended in 1954. Marilyn then married Robert Cooper. Robert adopted Michael and they welcomed Robert Jr., Robin and Lester (Buddy) Cooper. By the age of 19, Marilyn had the huge job of four young children, each a year apart, and a life as a Navy wife. When Robert was out of the Navy, his construction career dictated a continuation of their frequent moves, sometimes more than once a year. Marilyn was the strength, master organizer, and loving presence throughout all these moves, ensuring her kids were none worse for the wear.

In May of 1972, the family made their final move from Bothell, Wash., to Hayden. They settled on a farm at Rimrock and Garwood roads. Marilyn took the farm life to heart, making meals from scratch, growing a garden and making butter, ice cream and homemade delicacies her children talk about to this day.

In 1987, Marilyn and Robert divorced, and, true to form, Marilyn persevered. Having dropped out of school at 15, Marilyn went back to school, earning her GED. She went on to a career in real estate, supplemented by a second certification as a CNA. Marilyn worked for many years after her real estate career as a CNA, finally retiring in 2010.

Marilyn’s pride and joy were her children. She was a dedicated, loving, yet stern mother, teaching them a strict moral code and work ethic. Her heart was broken when her son, Robert (Donna) Cooper Jr. passed away in April 1987 from complications due to military-related cancer.

Marilyn was an avid reader. She was actively involved in following the U.S. political scene and very opinionated on the state of affairs. She loved spending time with her family and was happily involved with her grandkids from the time they were small.

Preceded in death by her parents, sister Mona and son Robert. Survivors include her sons, Michael (Cynthia Rozyla) Cooper, Buddy (Donna) Cooper, and daughter Robin. Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family.

Per her wishes, no services will be held. A family gathering will take place at a later date when she is interred at Pine Grove Cemetery in Rathdrum.

The family wishes to thank the exceptional staff at North Idaho Hospice for their care and support during Marilyn’s stay. In lieu of flowers, donations are made to North Idaho Hospice, Schneidmiller House in her name.

Bell Tower Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements, and Marilyn's online memorial can be found at www.belltowerfuneralhome.com.