Jeremiah Clark Chapter Newsletter - Edition 3

Clark Family Legacy Project

When the Jeremiah Clark chapter was formed, Grant Goulet, a board member of the chapter inquired about Jeremiah Clark's identity. Upon learning that Clarkston owed its name to the illustrious Clark family, an intriguing concept began to take shape.

Grant Goulet, known for his diligent work in constructing a family tree tracing the lineage of "Goulet" descendants over many years, decided to apply his expertise to assemble a family tree for the descendants of Jeremiah Clark. Unbeknownst to the chapter, Grant diligently continued his research for several months. When he eventually unearthed records of over 1,000 Clark descendants, he shared his impressive findings with the chapter, marking the inception of the Clark family legacy project.

The investigation into the family tree continued, ultimately revealing an astonishing 1,400 descendants, approximately 700 of whom have been positively identified as living descendants. The comprehensive Clark family tree, complete with all the valuable sources uncovered during the research, now resides on the Jeremiah Clark Chapter's website.

The serendipitous alignment of this project with the forthcoming 250th anniversary of America's founding generated fresh ideas on how to expand its scope. Consequently, a decision was made to collaborate with the Sashabaw Plains DAR chapter. Together, they will devise strategies to connect with these living descendants, introduce them to their rich family history, and unveil exciting plans for commemorating this cherished family heritage.

Constitution Week

Constitution Week, which ran from September 17th to 23rd, is an important occasion in the United States to celebrate the signing of the U.S. Constitution and reflect on the principles that have shaped our nation. In Clarkston, Michigan, the Jeremiah Clark Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Sashabaw Plains Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) came together to commemorate this historic event in a unique and meaningful way. They joined forces to decorate the display case at the Clarkston Library, transforming it into a captivating tribute to Constitution Week.

Our New Chapter Banner

The new advertising banner that graces our chapter with its inspiring presence. Meticulously designed by Grant Goulet, it stands as a visual tribute to our history and heritage.

A heartfelt thank you to Ken Loudy, whose generous contribution brought this vision to life. With the distinguished Sons of the American Revolution Logo against the backdrop of the American flag, this banner embodies the spirit of patriotism that unites our chapter.

Highlighted by the question "Do you have a patriot ancestor?" the banner resonates with the essence of our mission. As it takes center stage at our gatherings, it symbolizes not just our lineage, but also our dedication to preserving the legacy of those who laid the foundation for our nation's freedom.

Our New Chapter Flag

The Jeremiah Clark Chapter would like to thank David Walls, Diana Walls and the Davisburg Rotary club for donating a flag to our chapter. The American flag holds significant importance to the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) due to its deep historical and patriotic symbolism.

Wreaths Across America Reminder

On December 16, 2023 Jeremiah Clark Chapter SAR will be helping Great Lakes National Cemetery to Remember and Honor our veterans by laying Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes.

Please help us honor and remember as many fallen heroes as possible by sponsoring remembrance wreaths, volunteering on Wreaths Day, or inviting your family and friends to attend with you.

To contribute, kindly visit:
https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/175981/Overview

Next Chapter Meeting

Our next chapter meeting is on October 17th.
Join us at Buck Shots Bar & Grill
Topics include: chapter news, upcoming events, etc.
7048 Gateway Park Dr, City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346
Click here to add to your calendar

In Memory of Darrell Cooper

It is with the utmost sadness that we inform you of the passing of one of our fellow compatriots. Darrell Cooper passed away on August 2, 2023. After a short bout with a very aggressive form of cancer, he died at home on his eighty-first birthday, after living his life his way, laughing, loving, and leaving a legacy. A private gathering to celebrate his life was held at home. Written below is a heartfelt obituary honoring his legacy.

Darrell Cooper, a remarkable individual whose life was filled with extraordinary achievements, profound impact and cherished memories, will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him. He leaves a legacy of leadership and core family values.

Darrell was born in Jonesboro Arkansas and lived in Egypt Arkansas until age four when he moved to Pontiac Michigan with his parents Horace Edward Cooper and Ruby Mae Dedmon Cooper. He attended various elementary schools, graduated from Waterford High School in 1960, and then attended Arkansas State University. While there, he lost his winter sweaters and his Elvis Presley record albums while playing poker, learned to play billiards and dominoes at the local pool hall, and married Charlotte Pugh of Jonesboro in 1963.

With a Bachelor's Degree in Education, he moved to Clarkston Michigan, and after working for several companies to learn various skills, was hired to manage Fernco Joint Sealer Company. He increased production, products, profits, and moved the company from Ferndale to Davison. As a key figure in the growth and success of Fernco Inc., Darrell's dedication, leadership, and innovative spirit paved the way for the company's prosperity and a lasting Legacy for the Cooper Family.

Mr. Cooper was an early supporter of Youth Home, a behavioral health care facility, and of Oasis Renewal Center, both located in Little Rock Arkansas. He received the Arkansas Traveler Award from Governor Bill Clinton in 1983.

In 2000 he was the Arkansas State University Distinguished Alumnus. In 2003 ASU received a significant monetary gift from the Coopers, which went toward the construction of a multipurpose facility available for meetings, receptions, and community events. The Cooper Alumni Center officially opened in 2008.

Mr. Cooper took an active volunteer leadership role at Eastern Michigan University, serving as chairman of the College of Business Development Board and as a charter member of the EMU Foundation Board of Trustees. He served as treasurer and chairman of investment committee, chairman of the board, and was a Trustee Emeritus. He volunteered as chairman of the EMU Campaign for Scholars, which exceeded the goal of $12M. With a significant gift from the Coopers, the Cooper Endowed Chair in Leadership was established in the College of Business Management Department. He received the EMU Distinguished Service Award and in 1994 he received an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration degree.

Darrell liked fishing, flying his Cessna airplane, pheasant hunting, golfing, Gin Rummy, and traveling. Believing that travel was educational, he visited six continents and numerous countries with family, friends, and business associates. He attended the Tigers Fantasy Baseball Camp in Florida and wrote a book about that experience. He also wrote three books about his grandparents - The Cornbread Philosopher, Big Mama's Cornbread, and Mo' Cornbread.

Coop's Coupes, his car and motorcycle collection, includes the race car he drove at Waterford Hills Sportsman Club. He stopped racing when he tired of wearing fireproof underwear and a helmet with his blood type stamped on it. His fishing boat was named “My Way”, after the song recorded by Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. Most photos show Darrell with his family, friends, dogs, and cigars.

The Cooper family has a rich heritage, and Darrell was a member of the Jeremiah Clark Chapter, National Society Sons of the American Revolution.

He is lovingly remembered by his family - wife Charlotte Pugh Cooper; children Chris Cooper (Laurie Helin), Mark Cooper (Sandy Husted), Heather Cooper (James Herbert); grandchildren Cory Cooper (Celeste Grey), Jake Cooper, Kyle Cooper, Kayla Cooper, Caitlin Cooper, Nathan Giuli, James Giuli, Claire Giuli; great-grandson Coi Cooper; sister Cindy Cooper Myers (Rick Myers); nieces Lauren Myers Mocilac, Lindsey Myers Middlecamp, Erin Myers Monk.

The Darrell Cooper Scholarship Fund helps those in need of financial assistance when seeking higher education. If you wish to honor Darrell with a donation, please write checks to Fernco Inc and designate the DHC Scholarship Fund. Mail to Fernco Inc, 300 S Dayton St, Davison MI, 48423.