Rita A. Ock-naw Youngbird, 54, Topeka, Kan. died April 25, 2008 at her home. She was born September, 26 in Scott City, Kan. the daughter of Walter Cooper and Augustine Mitchell Cooper. She graduated from ChiloccoHigh School in Oklahoma and later received a bachelor’s degree in English from EmporiaState. She worked for the State of Kansas in Social Services, retiring in 2006. She married Arnold Youngbird, they later divorced. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Phil Cooper. She is survived by her companion of over 20 years, Paul Petonquot of Topeka; two daughters, Ashley Youngbird, Topeka, and Jessica Youngbird, Mayetta; an adopted son, Chant Brave, Lawrence; an adopted daughter, Robin Shield, Lawrence; three brothers, Gary Cooper, Ross Cooper and Jon Cooper, all of Topeka; two nieces, Melinda Williamson and Michelle Emmert; one grandson, Jaiden Cooper Wamego; a granddaughter, Jolona Shield and several adopted grandchildren. Rita was known for her Indian taco and fry bread booth at the LakeShawnee pow-wow. Rita enjoyed sewing pow-wow regalia, listening to the Beatles, riding scooters, cooking, bowling, softball and cookouts at the cabin. Rosary will be prayed Monday, April 28 at 7 p.m. with family visitation following from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Davidson Funeral Home. Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church west of Mayetta. Inurnment will follow at the ShipsheeCemetery.
