Died from dysentry,
16th October 1918,
Age 39
Buried Damascus Commonwealth War Cemetery
Newspaper Report:
TORPEDOED ON THE ARCADIAN
Private John E. Cooper (39), R.A.M.C., whose wife and one child reside at 25 Sunnybank Street., Haslingden, and who was one of the survivors from the torpedoed Arcadian about April of last year, died at Alexandria on October 16th from dysentery. He enlisted three years ago from the Haslingden Ambulance Corps. By trade he was a painter and decorator, with Mr. P. McIntyre, and he had distinct ability as an artist. His father is Mr. Berbert Cooper, insurance agent, of Manchester Road. There is a younger brother, Q.M.S., Harold Cooper, A.S.C., in France. Deceased's daughter recently won a scholarship at Haslingden Secondary School. He is on the roll of honour of Haslingden Parish Church. Upon the torpedoing of the Arcadian he was one of a number who were on a raft for five hours. They had given up hope when they were picked up by a French boat which sighted the raft by means of searchlights. Deceased at that time had no wearing apparel except a pair of trousers, and he was clothed at an island to which the party were taken. Later he proceeded to Alexandria, where he was put in charge of a ward and did work that brought him high compliments from Lord and Lady Borton, both of whom showed him great friendship. From Alexandria he was sent to Palestine and acted as stretcher bearer during the battles between the Allies and the Turks. When work there decreased he was attached to the Mysore Infantry and sent back to Alexandria. He wrote home to most cheery letters and showed facility in describing the many interesting places he visited.
Newspaper Memorial:
In loving memory of a dear husband and father, Private J.E. (Jack) Cooper, who died October 16th 1918, from dysentery at Damascus.
"His toils are past, his work is done,
And he was fully blest;
He fought the fight, the victory won,
And entered into rest.
Why should our tears in sorrow flow,
When God recalls His own?
But let our hearts in every woe,
Still say, "Thy will be done."
From his loving wife and daughter, 23 Sunnybank Street, Haslingden.
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| Pte John E. Cooper - Census Certificate - (Click over to enlarge) |
