Randall Lee Cooke

Randy was a vibrant spirit known for his infectious humor, quick wit and ability to make friends wherever he went.

Born in Bloomington, Illinois on April 16, 1962, to Rodney and Carol (Smith) Cooke. Randy married Marleen Rae Sullivan in Springfield, Illinois on June 8, 1985.

After graduating from Glenwood High School in 1980, he dedicated over two decades of his career as an operator at Kincaid Power Plant. Randy was an avid outdoorsman, with a love for hunting, fishing, and the beauty of nature. You could often find him in his free time at Sangchris Lake, hunting with his buddies and making one of his cherished “duck blind breakfasts”.

His greatest joy was found in the laughter and love of his six cherished grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Papa".

Randy was a true warrior who faced a formidable 16-year health battle, including two lung transplants, with unwavering positivity and an indomitable spirit. Through every struggle, his profound faith and enduring outlook was remembered with his signature phrase: "Life is Good… God is Great".

He was a pillar of his community using his talents to make a lasting impact. He volunteered for many years as a firefighter and EMT with the Chatham Fire Department. He passionately advocated for organizations close to his heart, such as Mid-America Transplant and the American Lung Association, using his personal journey to inspire and uplift others.

He was a beloved member and past president of the TRN Lake Club and member of Elks Lodge 158, cherishing the bonds of friendship formed during countless boating trips with his lake companions. He also served as President of the Sangchris Waterfowlers Association, where his vision brought to life the Brett Creager Memorial Youth Outdoor event, a testament to his dedication to educating and inspiring the next generation about the wonders of the great outdoors.

A loyal friend to many, he was known for his steadfast reliability; you could always count on him. His generous spirit and compassionate heart touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of warmth, strength, and an unshakeable belief in the good in the world. He will be deeply missed every day by those who knew and loved him.

Randy is survived by his loving wife, Marleen; daughter, Brandi (Eric) Goodin of Chatham; son, Ryan Cooke (Abby Geist) of Chatham; grandchildren, Max, Pierce, Brooke, Emma, Isabella, and Gabriella; father, Rodney Cooke; sister, Kim (Dave) Sapetti of Chatham; and numerous beloved friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Carol.

A public Visitation will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Cherry Hills Church, 2125 Woodside Road, Springfield, from 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. The Funeral Ceremony will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Jeff Nelsen, officiating.

Burial will follow at Bethany Cemetery in Edinburg, Illinois, near his beloved Sangchris Lake.

To honor Randy’s wishes of having a big party in remembrance of his life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at TRN Lake Club, 25 North Lakewood Drive in Chatham, from 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Please bring your fondest memories to share with family and friends.

Memorial donations can be made in Randy’s honor to Sangchris Waterfowlers Association, continuing his legacy of support and hope for youth in the outdoors. For information, visit Sangchris Waterfowlers Facebook page.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Rte. 4, Chatham.