William R. "Ritch" Cooper

West Brookfield – William “Ritch” R. Cooper, 57, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA.
He was born in Ware, MA on June 1, 1967, to Darleen Cooper (Bradley/Collins) and William W. Cooper, Jr.
After graduating from Quaboag Regional High School in 1986, Ritch served as a Specialist in the 27th Engineer Battalion of the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army. Afterwards, he worked in construction and as a heavy equipment operator.
A skilled tradesman, Ritch had a gift for renovation and repair; his knowledge and expertise were qualities many relied on and deeply appreciated.
Ritch spent most of his life in the West Brookfield area but had a passion for travel. In 2020, he fulfilled his dream of visiting Alaska and seeing the Iditarod. His travels took him to the Caribbean and across Europe, where he especially enjoyed Rome. He loved the outdoors, including camping, snowmobiling, four-wheeling, and biking around town with his dog.
He was predeceased by his father, William W. Cooper Jr., and his stepfather Lester B. Collins Jr.
Ritch leaves behind his long-term girlfriend Matti Mathieson and his beloved dog, Brennan of West Brookfield; his mother, Darleen Collins of West Brookfield; his son, Zachary Cooper, his wife Amanda and their two daughters, Lena and Emmaline of Palmer; and his daughter, Paige Cooper, her husband Robert and their daughter Jane of Uxbridge.
In honoring his wishes, there will be no public services. Ritch’s family requests that if you have any photographs, videos, or stories that you would like to share, please email them to RememberingRitch@gmail.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Ritch’s honor to:
Second Chance Animal Shelter, PO Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515 or online at Donate-Second Chance Animals

Varnum Funeral Home, 43 East Main St., in West Brookfield is handling his arrangements. An online tribute page is available at varnumfuneralhome.com.