RUSSELL GORDON COOKE

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RUSSELL GORDON COOKE Peacefully on Friday, June 17, 2011, with his wife Michelle by his side, Russ passed away at the age of 44. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 22 years, Michelle; sons Ryan (Carlie) and Jamie; mother Gail; father-in-law Ernie Nemeth; mother-in-law Linda Nemeth; brothers Rick (Lisa), Ron; sister-in-law Dianne (Grant); brother-in-law Brian (Kathy); Uncle Bruce and Aunt Karen, Uncle Bill, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was predeceased by his father Earle Cooke. Russ was born March 6, 1967 to Earle and Gail Cooke. He grew up spending his summers with his family at the lake. Russ loved playing sports, he played and refereed hockey, soccer and coached football. When Russ was older he loved to ride his dirt bike at the floodway. While attending T.C.I. he worked at Tony's Pizza where he saved up to buy his Chevelle. After graduating, Russ aspired to become a police officer like his father, unfortunately too many speeding tickets stood in his way. He then went to work for Winnipeg Heating and Turbo Gas. In 1987 Russ was hired at Griffin. Russ was very ambitious and hardworking so in 1999 he was promoted to Production Supervisor. Russ was very devoted and loyal to his job. Russ married his high school sweetheart, Michelle, in 1989. His first son, Ryan was born in 1990 followed by Jamie in 1993. Russ was very proud of his two sons. He enjoyed spending time playing street hockey, catch, a round of golf and board games with his boys. For two seasons he was an assistant coach for Ryan's hockey team, he also coached two seasons of Jamie's soccer. Russ always attended their sporting activities with pride. Russ had many memories from trips taken with his family. His most cherished trip was to Vegas where he attended a Nascar race. Russ always enjoyed snowmobiling in the winter, more recently he purchased a motorcycle which he loved to ride. Russ was very outgoing and always willing to lend a hand to anyone who asked. He was a real handyman when it came to repairing cars or fixing something around the house. We will miss him dearly. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Dr. M. Rubinger, Jodi, Sherese, Tracey, Cara, Wally and Orit at CancerCare Manitoba for their care and compassion during the past three and one half years. A special thank you to Frank and Ruth for all their love and support. In keeping with Russ' wishes, Russ will be cremated and there will be no formal memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Russ' memory to CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 21, 2011