CLIFFORD (CLIFF) R. COOKE, CD

Condolences & Memories (19 entries)

• Cath, I remember your dad coming into the office and being so proud to see you! Please extend our thoughts and prayers to your mom, Rob and Bob. Losing your dad/husband at anytime is unthinkable, and during a pandemic, even more difficult. Just know that there are many of us thinking and praying for you and your family, and I truly hope you have such peace knowing you were the best daughter your dad could have ever asked for. Love you my friend. - Posted by: Laurie Gretschmann (Friend) on: Jun 22, 2021

• The photo for Cliff's obituary really captured the man I knew for so many years. In his tribute below, Jack Reay gave a wonderful description of Cliff and of his role on the squadron, so I will just say that everyone who worked with him will always remember the joy and the pride that Cliff demonstrated when he was leading the 402 band. Thanks for the memories and rest in peace. - Posted by: Rick Linden (Fellow 402 member for several decades) on: Jun 10, 2021

• Condolences to the Cook family, we will miss that amazing smile and his gracious hospitality. I miss my weekly glass of wine with Cliff and June, Gus misses his smile and amazing outlook on life. He was uplifting and positive, a wonderful husband and father and a dear friend to many Gus and Cathie Mauro - Posted by: Cathie Mauro (friend) on: Jun 10, 2021

• Will be missing Cliff as a friend and as an admirer of his leading our famous Pipe Band. Cliff and I worked together as Sergeants and our friendship continued as I was promoted into the officer ranks, Per Ardua Ad Astra Cliff. - Posted by: Ronald W Salome (Worked with Cliff as a Sergeant and as an Officer for many years at 402 Squadron. ) on: Jun 05, 2021

• My sincere condolences to June and the Cooke family. I have very fond memories of Cliff and June and Cliff's mum Norah in our days at St. Patrick and St. Jude. Cliff's tender care of Norah was lovely to see, and his good humour and bonhomie were infectious. Rest in peace, Cliff, until you rise in glory. - Posted by: Rene Jamieson (Former co-parishioner atSt. Patrick and St. Jude) on: Jun 05, 2021

• Dear June, We know the pain and loss you and your family are feeling today. Cliff was a wonderful person and Martin thought very highly of him. Martin had so many good memories of Cliff being drum major of RCAF Squadron 402 Pipes and Drums. Martin would tell stories of how Cliff would inspect everybody before he would allow any of the band members to go on parade... and often he would tell Martin “get a haircut son”. Cliff will be missed by so many people who loved and respected him. Our sincere condolences on your loss to you June and your family. I believe we never say good bye to those we love, but instead “ see you later”. Rest In Peace Cliff. Louisa and Claire - Posted by: Louisa and Claire Newlands (Friend) on: Jun 04, 2021

• My deepest sympathy and condolences go to June and family. I met Cliff many times usually at the #4 legion and after parade at the RBC convention Nov. 11 Remembrance Day. Cliff was always fun to talk to and always took time to say hi with a smile. He was proud of being Drum Major of 402 Squadron. He will be missed and we will remember him. REST IN PEACE. Larry Golembioski 500 Wing Wpg. - Posted by: Larry Golembioski (friend) on: May 31, 2021

• So many wonderful memories of much loved Cliff dating back to the early 50's as I too am 91 years young. His going leaves a big hole in so many hearts. We all shall miss him dearly. Love and condolences to June and family. - Posted by: jean hickson(Gilraine) (friend) on: May 30, 2021

• I have truly lost a very close friend in Cliff. Cliff and June Cooke have been close to me and my family and we have enjoyed numerous, too many to count, wonderful fun times, trips and numerous laughs together. Years ago our RCAF Pipe Band was playing at the Chippewa Headquarters in Winnipeg. Cliff approached me and asked to play the Bass Drum. He loved the Navy but wanted to play a drum in a Pipe Band. After many challenges Cliff transferred from the Navy and became a Sgt. with RCAF in the Security section I was I/c of at that time. Over time Cliff practised and we proceeded to get him into the band as a drummer and later as Drum Major of the Band. As Drum Major, Cliff exemplified dignity and much pride in front of the band. He was always dressed to the nines and presented a very polished look for many years of dedicated service, leading the 402 Squadron Pipe Band. Cliff will be missed by all of us lucky enough to have known him. Rest Well my friend. Best wishes to June and family, Former Band Officer, Captain, John (Jack) Reay and partner Elaine in Kelowna. - Posted by: Jack Reay (Very good friend and fellow bandsman with the RCAF 402 Squadron Pipe Band) on: May 30, 2021

• Condolences to you June and your family during this sad time. - Posted by: Bernie Tigchelaar (co-worker of June Cooke (BMO)) on: May 30, 2021

• I remember Cliff as a man with panache as he lead 402 Sqn Band. The way he gestured with that heavy baton while smiling like he was having the time of his live always amazed me. During a tattoo at the old Polo Park arena, I was privileged to observe Cliff leading the band several times, as I was part of a display honoring the military in WW2. I had asked Cliff if the band could play a certain piece of music. He told me it would be too difficult to play on bagpipes. I was disappointed, but still looked forward to hearing the band play. The first time the band played at the tattoo, they slowly approached me, finally turning not six feet away from me. Just before they turned, Cliff looked me in the eye, winked, flourished his gold baton, and carried on. The band indeed were playing my requested song! I was so happy I cried. I will always remember that tattoo, Cliff's sense of humour, and his kindness. - Posted by: Caroll Akerstream (member of 402 Air Reserve Sqn in the 1970s) on: May 29, 2021

• Enjoyed his company at WO's & Sgt's mess & the Legion, over the many years. Rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: Garry Tiller (friend) on: May 29, 2021

• My first time meeting Cliff was on a 402 SQN band trip to Oklahoma I think in 1999, he was in the middle as the band practiced. I asked Bill, who is that old man telling everyone what to do? He laughed at me and said that is Cookie, our Drum Major. I must have gone 3 shaded of red. Cliff was soo wonderful to me. We would joke around and just fun on band trips, and practices. He was the band grandfather. He looked out for us all. He was even a shoulder to cry on. My life is better for having Cliff in my life. My love and deepest condolences go out to June and the family. - Posted by: Wendy Patterson (nee Butland) (Friend) on: May 29, 2021

• We extend our heartfelt condolences to June, Cathy and family for the loss of a cherished husband and father. The end of life here marks the dawning of a wonderful new day in the presence of our Saviour. John 16:22 "So with you. Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." Believe God's promises. - Posted by: Lois and Garry Harland (Friends) on: May 29, 2021

• I would like to pass on my sincere condolences to June and the family on behalf of 402 "City of Winnipeg" Squadron. Cliff's long-lasting contribution to the Pipe Bands in Winnipeg was astounding. His contribution to the 402 Squadron will be remembered. Thank you for all of your loyal service. - Posted by: Martial Laporte (402 Squadron CWO) on: May 29, 2021

• Our condolences to June and family, rest well Cliff, always to be remembered! - Posted by: Glenn Slattery (Old friend.) on: May 29, 2021

• My condolences to the family. I saw and made a point to talk with him on many occasions being involved with the military or the Freemasons. Long time friend since childhood and former resident of the west end. - Posted by: Cliff Hartmier (Friend) on: May 29, 2021

• Cliff took me under his wing when I joined 402 back in 1989. He was an amazing man...always had a kind word to say and I enjoyed the many band trips we went on together. Rest in peace and know that you were well loved and respected - Posted by: Sean Osztian (Friend) on: May 29, 2021

• I have great memories of partying and playing cribbage with Cliff at the 402 Squadron Senior Officers Mess in the 70’s. He consistently beat me and laughed about it heartily. He was a wonderful man to be around. My condolences to June and family - Posted by: John Sobczak (Former member of 402 Squadron) on: May 29, 2021