Thomas “Tom” H. Cooke
Thomas H. Cooke, of Shawano, died Saturday, February 1, 2025, in Scottsdale, AZ.
Thomas was born May 12, 1950, to Robert S. and Marguerite V. (Abend) Cooke. Tom was a smart man, and he planned well for the future. So it’s no surprise he was able to surround himself with loved ones in the weeks before his death. It was a comfort for him that friends and family made the trip to see him as he battled cancer.
Tom was proud of the legacy of the family farm in Lookout, which is where he grew up. From an early age, he showed a great knack for athletics. He was given the opportunity to shine when he transferred to Independence High School. After that, he was on to UW-River Falls, where he received his degree in Political Science. As an athlete, Tom enjoyed fitness all his life, whether he was skiing out west with friends or on his daily run. After his accomplished sports career during school, running became a must for Tom. So much so that he competed in the annual Bun Run at Burger Fest in Seymour, WI. He even spent some time organizing the event.
Tom worked in finance and was hungry for the success he earned. He enjoyed traveling and frequented Colorado, Puerto Vallarta, Maztalan, parts of the Gulf of Mexico, and in his later years, Pheonix, AZ.
Living on the channel of the lake in Shawano allowed Tom to rip around on jet skis to his hearts content, often leading him to Lighthouse Bar, a favorite watering hole. Tom held family in high regard, never missing Christmas gatherings or the yearly family reunion at his childhood home, Willow Farms.
Fortunately, Tom was lucky in love. He met Corrina in 2022, and can be remembered saying how easy things were with her and that he was just happy to see her every day. Tom and Corrina had many happy times, adventures and memories together. She cared for Tom in all his needs to the very end, never wavering in her love and dedication.
Tom is survived by his brothers: Bobby and Douglas Cooke; nieces: Bridget Cooke and Paige (Jared) Werlein; nephews: Garret (Justine) and Connor (Hanna) Cooke; great-nephews: Jalen and Jaxton Werlein; former sister-in-law, Ann Cooke; aunts: Frieda Cooke and Rosalind Cooke; and many cousins and second cousins. Tom was preceded in death by his parents.
Tom lived his life to the fullest. Let’s celebrate that with a gathering, Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., at East End Bar & Grill in Independence. Luncheon and bar provided. A private interment will be held at Cooke Family Cemetery at a later date.
