George R. Cockerton Mar. 3, 1936 - Jul. 16, 2014 Resident of Walnut Creek George R. Cockerton passed away peacefully on July 16,2014 with his family by his side, after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born in Oakland CA and has been a life time resident of Walnut Creek. George was a graduate of Acalanes High School and later went on to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo as a varsity athlete, lettering in football and baseball. In 1954, George enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict and after honorable discharge, followed his passion by becoming an educator. George was a successful teacher and coach for the San Ramon Valley School District for over 38 years. His passion for the game and dedication to the athletes was noteworthy. George is survived by his loving wife Barbara of 56 years; his oldest son Matthew and wife Lisa, grand children Cori and Ryan, son Michael and his children Adam and Angela, Daughter Margaret husband Paul and granddaughter Melissa. Son Richard and wife Julie, grandchild Kate. All are invited to join in celebration of life to be held at Saint Stephens Catholic Church, 525 Madonna Lane in Walnut Creek on Thursday, July 24th at 10:30 am. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local hospice organization or high school athletic program. Holy Anges Funeral 925-932--0900

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Published by Contra Costa Times on Jul. 20, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for George Cockerton

Sponsored by East Bay Times.

14 Entries

Happy Birthday Grandpa

Melissa Lowell

November 19, 2014

Margaret Lowell

November 19, 2014

Missing you, and will hold you in prayer.

Will(ie) Clemens

July 25, 2014

We were blessed with many great coaches who helped make the person we are today. Can't believe that was over 30 years ago. Thank you Cockerton family for sharing him with us!

Gregg Goodman

July 24, 2014

Few men are able to shape the lives of so many individuals. Coach was a shining example of a man who, to this day, I hold dear to my heart. George was one of the few men who had a profound effect on shaping me as an individual. I am a better person today for having him in my life. My family truly loved the Cockerton family. I regret not visiting more and not being able to attend the services today, but now I think I can have some personal conversations with him and he will be listening. To Matt and Mike, whom I will always consider friends, know that your father was truly loved by our community and that he was an inspiration to so many. To Barbara and the entire family, we wish you peace in this difficult time and know that you are in our hearts and prayers. With much Love, the Goodman Clan

Stewart Hansen

July 24, 2014

Condolences to the entire Cockerton Family. Thinking of Coach Cockerton brought back many great memories. Your Dad was a principled and positive role model. He (along with Coaches Stockberger, Ladouceur, Jones and others) greatly impacted more formative young lives than he probably realized. He loved the game of football and used it to teach about accountability and hard work. He was also an empathetic man who knew that a teenager could sometimes use a pat on the back or a kick in the pants. He gave a fantastic half time speech once where he stated "..if you want it, its there to be had", referring to seizing the opportunity and realizing your goals. I have remembered that to this day. I am saddened by his passing but feel fortunate to have known him and appreciative for his impact on many, many lives, including my own.

John Rhodes

July 23, 2014

Coach Cockerton was an incredible Teacher. He didn't just teach us how to be good football players, he taught us how to be good men. My deepest condolences to his Family.

Paul Gambs

July 23, 2014

Coach Cockerton was a key figure in all of our lives, taught us to be tough, disciplined and he will be missed.

Shad Hansen

July 23, 2014

My condolences to the Cockerton Family. I really wish I could be at the services. I learned a lot from Coach Cockerton and feel very fortunate to have known him and benefit from the positive impact he has had on my life!

Grant Steunenberg

July 22, 2014

Coach Cockerton was an inspiration as an educator, coach, and mentor. He helped shape the person I am today. I was proud to have known him.

Bob and Christy Sanders

July 22, 2014

My condolences to the Cockerton family on the loss of George. He challenged so many of us to get more out of ourselves in his years as a teacher and coach, as did his wife Margaret and son Matt. You are in our prayers

Bill Bold

July 22, 2014

Matt and family,

My condolences on the loss of your father. He was a wonderful teacher and a tough but fair coach. He was also a sweet and good man who taught me and his other players a great deal about responsibility and hard work. I am so sorry for your loss.

Nancy Rose

July 22, 2014

Margaret, Matt, Mike and Rich, I have such fond memories of living kitty corner from you on La Sonoma Way. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I know his legacy lives on.
Regards,
Nancy Rose (Downs)

July 21, 2014

Matt,
Sorry for the loss of your Dad. Our love and prayers are with you and your family. There are still many hard times ahead but remember the good times and memories. Lots of love, Jill and Lyle

Matt Carpenter

July 20, 2014

Dear Matt, Lisa, Cori, Ryan: we are greatly saddened by the loss of your dad. What a great guy he was! I pray that God will comfort all of you and that you will continue to remember your dad when he was strong and full of life and trust that now he is in God's presence. Love, Matt and Renee Carpenter

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