LCdr. Philip C. H. Cooke, RCN (ret’d) passed away on May 5, 2011 in Victoria. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 70 years, Margie; his children Angie, Chris, Geoff, David, and Rob; his grandchildren Lili, Allison, Colin, Kathleen, Andrew, Clare, and Jenny; his sister, Christine; his nephews Phil, Richard, and Chris; and his niece Catherine. He will also be missed by Gustav, Debbie, Karen, Barbara, Laura, Ken, Jan, Alec and Betty.

Phil was born on December 20, 1919 in Tamworth, Staffordshire, England and immigrated to Canada at the age of 3 with his parents and two sisters. He joined the RCNVR in 1940, serving at sea in various ships, including HMC Ships Battleford and Matane. He later transferred to the RCN and served in HMC Ships Magnificent, Beacon Hill (XO), and New Glasgow (XO). After commanding HMCS Inch Arran (1959-1961), he retired from the RCN as XO of Royal Roads Military College in 1965. Following a second career in the business world in Vancouver, Phil retired fully to Salt Spring Island with Margie in 1981. There followed 28 happy years in which they enjoyed the pleasures of their waterfront home with family and friends. Although they spent time traveling to England, Europe, and New Zealand, they were happiest at home. Phil loved to sail, golf, putter in his workshop, take the dog for long walks, and smoke a quiet cigar while solving the daily cryptic crossword. He also enjoyed reading, bird-watching, and painting. Among his many fine qualities, Phil will be remembered especially for his optimistic outlook on life, his dedication to family, his sense of humour, and his calm forbearance in the face of adversity.

The family is deeply grateful to the staff of Amica at Douglas House for their loving care of Phil during the past year. Sincere thanks to the staff at the Victoria General Hospital who tended Phil with such gentle compassion during the last weeks of his life.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, May 12, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. at the chapel at the Veterans’ Cemetery, 1190 Colville Road, Esquimalt with the Rev. Canon Andrew Gates officiating. Reception to follow at the CFB Esquimalt Wardroom, 1586 Admirals Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Phil’s name to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation for VGH Palliative Care, 602 -620 View Street, Victoria, B.C. V8W 1J6. Condolences for the family may be offered at www.mccallbros.com.

  • Sid R Wallace LCdr (MT) RCN (retired)

    Phil was a gentleman and an exceptional superior !
    We served at Royal Roads ! Our commanding officer did not have a greal deal of use for those in the RCN. Adm Landymore was able to intercede on my behalf before my annual assessment left Victoria hence my assessment was changed, and yes I benefited. Sid

  • Jack and Rita Caccamo

    Our deepest sympathy goes out to Margie and family at this sad time in your lives. Jack and I fondly remember the wonderful afternoon we spent at your home on Salt Spring Island and your viist to our home in Thunder Bay for Rob and Laura’s wedding. Unfortunately because of distance and Jack’s poor health we will be unable to attend Phil’s service on Thursday but out thoughts and prayers will be with you.

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