James D. Cooke

James D. Cooke, 61, passed away on September 21, 2013, after a brief illness. You may have known him as JC or Jim, but to his family and extended family, he was Dad, Daddy, Jimbo, "Deedum", Grandpa Jim, Papa Cooke, and a few special names his wife had for him. He was a simple man, giving everything he had to his family, putting their needs and happiness always before his own. Being corny was his ultimate gift, and although his family would all roll their eyes when he told one of his jokes for the hundredth time, we would dearly love to hear them all just once more.

Jim was a fan of "classic" movies – the kind that are rated one star or less, and anything in black and white. He loved all things Star Wars, Die Hard, or Sci-Fi, especially Godzilla, and could watch them over and over. Old westerns and horror flicks were always favorites, too. He liked to point out that "the blonde with the big boobs" in any scary movie will always be the first to go, usually because they fall down when running through the woods. Mostly, he was right.

Jim was a fan of the Browns for some reason, the Bucks, and a good, greasy cheeseburger with fresh cut fries, and would take that meal over a steak any time. Add to that a Bud Light, and the man was happy as a pig in….mud. Recently he had learned to cook the best baby back ribs around, and took great care to protect his "secret recipe."

Jim leaves behind his wife of 34 years, Cathy, with whom he shared a special love and bond. He also leaves his two children, Brad (Michelle) Cooke, and Alicia Cooke, grandchildren, Julia, Mia, and Colden. He will surely be missed by his little buddy, Ozzie, who was always willing to share the sofa with his Daddy. Jim also leaves his sisters Patricia Gable, Brenda Bain and Sandra Sullivan, brother Steve Cooke, sister-in-law, Marnay Schrock, his extended family and many friends.

Cremation has taken place. There will be a private celebration of Jim's life at a later date.

Jim was special to many people, always having a beer and a story to share. In lieu of flowers, friends may make a donation to Paws and Prayers of Akron, your favorite animal rescue group, or VNS Hospice. At the very least, pick up a beer and toast the life of a very dear man, who loved and was loved, and whose absence leaves a painful hole in our hearts.