March 29, 2024

John E Cooke (Johnny)

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It is with profound sadness that the family of John E Cooke (Johnny) announces his sudden passing into eternal life on December 21, 2021 at the age of 61. Born in East Providence on April 22, 1960 he was the son of the late John C. and Eveline (Viens) Cooke. Johnny was a 1978 graduate of East Providence High School. He was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps where he served proudly from 1978 to 1981 where he received several commendations. He has been employed by Roger Williams University since 2004 as a Maintenance Specialist in the Facilities Department.

Johnny leaves behind his adored wife Kathleen (Katy) Clancy Cooke, to whom he was married for 33 adventurous years and their cherished children Victoria Lynn Pennacchia and her husband Paul of East Providence and Courtney Rose Cooke of Providence. He was also the loving Grandpa to three granddaughters, Noelle, Madeline and Amelia Pennacchia. He will be greatly missed by Buddy and Holly, his devoted cockapoos. Johnny is also survived by his loving niece, Julie Dutra of East Providence and her 2 sons. Additionally he leaves his affectionate “Clancy in-law” clan of 12 brothers/sisters in-law, 15 nieces and nephews, and 14 great nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Cathy Cooke.

Johnny’s passion was cooking and grilling for his family and friends. He never met a recipe he didn’t like and he loved to experiment with food. His specialty, “Johnny’s Calzones”, were a staple at every family gathering, where they were always highly anticipated and enjoyed. He also loved doing specialty pizza’s nights for his girls and their friends. He enjoyed all things rock and roll and one of his deepest regrets was when WBRU left the airwaves.

Underneath it all, Johnny was a kind and gentle soul. He will be remembered as a fiercely loyal Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Son, Brother, Uncle, and Friend to all who he cherished. He was happy to have been given the gift of life and he so enjoyed the ride. In Johnny’s memory pour yourself a shot of Yukon Jack and toast the memory of a special guy, a true free spirit.

His Funeral will be held on Thursday December 30, 2021 from the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside at 8:45 with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Brendan Church, Turner Avenue, Riverside at 10 a.m. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Calling hours are Wednesday from 4-7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers contributions in Johnny’s memory to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, 200 Niantic Avenue Providence, RI 02907 would be deeply appreciated.

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