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With much sadness, Katahdin FCU shares news that longtime board member Gary (Cooper) Dumas passed away after a brief illness. Cooper was deeply devoted to the credit union, serving over 22 years as a volunteer. He presided as Treasurer for many of those years and was a valued member of the Asset Liability Committee (ALCO).
Cooper proudly served in the United States Army in the 101st Airborne Division. He worked for Great Northern Paper for over 39 years and was an avid sky diver, pilot, and fisherman. He also worked as the President of the Campground Association, was a life-long member of the BPOE Lodge 1521, and volunteered as a tax aide for AARP.
“Cooper will be greatly missed by all who knew him,” shared Tina Jamo, President/CEO at Katahdin FCU.
A copy of his obituary is pasted below:
MILLINOCKET – Gary J “Cooper” Dumas, 85, passed away at home on August 06, 2024, after a brief illness surrounded by his family.
Cooper was born in Millinocket on December 21, 1938, to Aldona (Kedderis) Dumas and Leonard Dumas. He graduated from Stearns High School in 1957 and enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served in 101st Airborne Division. Cooper went on to graduate from Husson University in 1977 with an Associate Degree in Business Administration. Cooper worked for Great Northern Paper Company for 39 years as a papermaker and was fortunate to enjoy 30 years of retirement pursuing his passions.
Cooper was a born dare devil and spent his free time skydiving, he completed 879 successful jumps. Cooper was instrumental in the formation of the Mid State Sport Parachute Club in Millinocket. After retiring from skydiving Cooper enjoyed piloting his airplane and never turned down an opportunity to ride a roller coaster with his children and grandchildren.
Cooper was also an avid Fly Fisherman and loved spending time at Nesowadnehunk Lake Great Northern Retiree Campground. He served many years as President of the Campground Association and on the Board of Directors with his friend Bob “Sqeak” Leet. Cooper was a life member of the BPOE Lodge 1521 and served on the Board of Directors at the Katahdin FCU. Cooper also volunteered for many years as a Tax Aide for the AARP.
Cooper is survived by his devoted wife of sixty years Velma (Plourde) Dumas, daughter Kerrie-Jo Glidden of Millinocket and son John Dumas (Brandy) of Lithia, Florida. Cooper leaves three granddaughters, Mikayla Girsa (Tyson) of Skowhegan, Rabecka Glidden (Cole) of Millinocket, and Abigail Dumas of Lithia, Florida. Cooper leaves two sisters Barbara Peavey and Sherry Franck.
Cooper was predeceased by his parents as well as his brother-in-law Norman and nephews Mark and Eric Peavey.
The family wishes to thank CHCS and Maine Home Care for their care and support.
In lieu of Flowers donations can be made to the Katahdin Area Support Group P.O. Box 374 Millinocket, Maine 04462.