Obituary of Samuel G. Cooke

Samuel G. Cooke, b. February 17, 1949, passed away on September 24th in the company of his wife Cheri, devoted Maltese Ellie, and family.

Following a career in banking, Sam became the Director of Administration for Westminster Presbyterian Church in downtown Minneapolis.  He served in this capacity for 25 years spanning the ministry of three senior pastors.  He was a team facilitator for significant campus and ministerial projects in the telling presence of Westminster in the community.  He felt very blessed by the many colleagues and friends from his service there.

Aside from his public careers, his true love was his avocation in the study of philosophy and theology.  He was well-read in both fields, and a man of faith, who believed that faith was compatible with science and rigorous thinking.  He was also seeking correspondences for ancient meanings in contemporary metaphors.

He was avid in physical exercise, and with Cheri was the proud owner of several generations of Maltese puppies and Birman cats.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Celesta Cooke, and his siblings, Joy Bosch (Harvey) and Jon Cooke (Pam).  He is survived by the love of his life Dr. Cheryl L. Cooke, and by his siblings Marietta Heuberger (Michael), Phil Cooke (Karen), Deborah Rambo (Lyndall), Lois Fuchs (Bud), and Mark Cooke (Rebecca), as well as his brother-in-law Dr. Tim Swanson (Barb).

Sam’s family is grateful for the many caregivers over the course of his hospitalizations.  They are grateful for the ministry of Rev. Dr. Timothy Hart-Andersen, and the many expressions of love and friendship from the Westminster Community.  The service for the celebration of his life will be at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Friday, October 14 at 2:00, where his remains will be committed to rest in their columbarium.  Reception will follow. 

The service will be livestreamed and recorded.  Family requests safe COVID practices of attendees.

In lieu of flowers, the family recommends donations be given to Westminster Presbyterian Church or to your favorite charities.