SMSgt Charles Donald Cooke, USAF, Retired, has gone to his last Permanent Change of Station (PCS) assignment, 31 January 2021, ahead of his family and friends to pave the way and prepare a new home with our Heavenly Father for when they join him once more.
Charlie “Don” Cooke, as known to his family and friends, was born in Swannanoa, North Carolina, 2 May 1942. At the age of 18 he graduated Charles D Owen High School and enlisted in the United States Air Force (USAF), May 1960. Charlie proudly served his country with honor, devotion, and distinction for over 54 years. During his military career, spanning over 21 years, he made numerous Permanent Change of Stations within the United States and abroad. As is customary in the military with new assignments, military members always go ahead of their family to prepare the way for their arrival.
After retiring from the USAF, as a Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt), from Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio in1981, Charlie entered US Government Civil Service where he served for over 16 years and then as a Defense Contractor for another 17 years. There was never a more dedicated man than Charlie Cooke, always taking the tough assignments and setting the example for others to follow. Charlie was not only fiercely dedicated to his country, he was a devoted and loving husband, father and friend.
Charlie’s life epitomized the Air Force Core Values – “Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.”
Charlie and Cheryl shared many joys in life, but wood carving was the one enjoyment they both loved. Charlie was an avid wood carver and member of a Wood Carvers’ Guild for many years, and won numerous awards for his carvings. Over the years, Charlie personalized a number of his carvings as presentations for special occasions; truly, treasures to behold.
After his final retirement in April 2014, Charlie moved his family from New Carlisle, Ohio to Cartersville, Georgia, where a new chapter of his life evolved.
Charlie leaves behind his loving and devoted wife, and childhood sweetheart of 29 years, Cheryl Dianna Cooke, his loving daughter, Stevie Lynn Cooke-Holbrook, Sisters: Jewell “Julie” Ratcliffe, Jo Ward (Jim), Vivolynn Crandall; Brothers: David Cooke (Ruth), Michael Cooke (Tula), and many adoring nieces, nephews, cousins,’ friends and neighbors. Charlie is preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Surette-Cooke, Father, Roy Curtis Cooke, Mother Ruby Hall-Cooke and brother Talmadge “Bo” Cooke.
Words cannot simply sum up this amazing man’s life. He lived life to the fullest, was a friend to all, and he loved to make people laugh. But most of all, he will be remembered in our hearts as a true American who loved his country and loved the Lord. He did his duty to preserve the rights that many before him fought and died for so that future generations can continue to enjoy the liberties and freedom this country was founded on.
A celebration of Charlie’s life will be May 2, 2021 at 1:00pm at Christmount Assemely in the Watergardens, 222 Fern Way, Black Mountain, NC, 28711. In lieu of flowers please consider sending a donation in memory of Charlie to the charity of your choice.
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