LaVal (Loewen) Cooper

LaVal Loewen Cooper, 83, departed this life peacefully in her sleep on July 13, 2026, after a valiant and brief battle with colon cancer. Born on February 28, 1943, in Hazen, North Dakota. LaVal was the cherished daughter of Leonard and Irene Loewen. To honor LaVal's life and legacy, a visitation will be held on July 20, 2026, at 9:00 AM followed by the funeral service at 10:00 AM at the Hazen Methodist Church, located at 2 3rd St NE, Hazen, North Dakota 58545. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate her life and the indelible mark she left on our hearts. Please join us for a luncheon following the burial, in the church basement.

After a short and beautiful dating period, LaVal married Tom Cooper on June 6, 1963.  Together they built a beautiful life in Hazen, North Dakota, where they raised their two children, Rena and Clay. LaVal dedicated many years to the Mercer County Soil Conservation District, where she was known for her diligence and dedication. Her commitment extended beyond her work, as she was an active and cherished member of the Hazen Methodist Church, sharing her love for music by playing the organ for church services.

A woman of boundless warmth and generosity, LaVal was deeply loved by all who knew her. Her kind spirit and helpful nature left a lasting impact on her community and her church family. She loved spending time with her family, tending to her garden, and embracing the simple pleasures of farming.

LaVal was preceded in death by her loving husband of 49 years, Tom Cooper, her son Clay Cooper, her daughter Rena Olheiser and her sister, Marlene “Toots” Retterath.

She is survived by her grandchildren, Cooper (Liz) Olheiser, Bayli Sutton, and Molly (Garrett) Hickel, as well as six great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life. Her sister, Mavis Hoffman, and the extended family will fondly remember her warmth and kindness.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Jody Retterath and Rhonda Biffert for their unwavering support and compassion, caring for LaVal for the last several years.

LaVal will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her.

Arrangements conducted by Barbot Funeral Home, Beulah and Hazen.

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