Paul Horace Cooper, 86, of Albert Lea passed away Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020, at his home. A private memorial service will be held. Inurnment will be in Alden Cemetery in the spring.

Paul was born Oct. 3, 1933, in Long Beach, California. He was the son of Harold and Leota (Brown) Cooper. He graduated from Alden High School in 1952.

Paul joined the U.S. Navy on June 13, 1952, and was discharged June 6, 1956. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Mankato State University in 1961. He taught in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Brimley, Michigan; and Taylors Fall before making his way back to Albert Lea in 1969. He taught at Albert Lea High School until his retirement.

Paul enjoyed acting in many Albert Lea Community Theatre plays through the years; among his favorites were “Our Town” and “Inherit the Wind.” He was a life member of the Albert Lea American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was also a member of the Albert Lea Elks.

Paul enjoyed his coffee klatch at Hy-Vee, camping and traveling with his wife to many states and countries. He will be missed for his humor, satire, grammar lessons to his friends and his kindness.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Deborah; brother, James (Alene); sisters-in-law Helen Cooper and Anne Hanson; and nieces and nephews and their families.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents and oldest brother, Richard.