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William John Bourne COCKER

William COCKER Obituary

WILLIAM JOHN BOURNE COCKER John was born in 1933 in Derby, England, and died on October 3, 2022, after a brave struggle with Parkinson's Disease. Dear husband and true love for 66 years to Monica. Proud father to daughter, Sue (Warren); sons, James (Gail) and Peter (Dragica); and adored grandpa to Roland, Benjamin, Jeffrey (Leah), and Christopher. Predeceased by sisters, Pat and Margaret, and son, David. After completing his medical training at St. Bartholomew's Hospital in London, John immigrated to Canada in 1960. He enjoyed a successful career as a family doctor in Aurora, ON, but he was also a medical entrepreneur, magazine publisher and author, an adventurer, a world traveller, an international sailor, an aircraft builder and pilot. Much admired by his many friends from all walks of life for his wide range of accomplishments and exploits, he will perhaps be most fondly remembered for his sense of humour as a storyteller. John loved to make people laugh. He maintained active social ties with his many groups of friends. He lived life to its fullest, with passion and inspiration, and with Monica by his side. Sincere thanks to the staff at the Toronto Western Hospital Movement Disorders Clinic and the Southlake Regional Health Centre for their attentive care. A reception to celebrate John's life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic, at UHN Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Please visit UHNfoundation.ca/tribute or call 416-603-5300.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Oct. 15 to Oct. 19, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for William COCKER

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8 Entries

Robert Williams

May 11, 2023

Dear Monica,
I was saddened to hear of John´s death and I wish to extend my most heartfelt condolences to you and your boys. I have many great memories of John and of all the good times that we shared together. John had a great sense of humor and an ease of manner that made everyone about him feel comfortable. For me John was a friend and neighbour, and a colleague. He was a true gentleman who enriched the lives of all of those who knew him. His presence will be much missed. (Dr.) Robert Williams

Shaheda Handy

January 8, 2023

Monica,
Just saw the obit in the Ont medical review.
My deepest condolences to you and your family
I have fond memories of working with John in his role as a coroner, the magazine he published and both John and I especially remember the trip to Costa Rica.

Amanda Jeffs

December 3, 2022

Dr. Cocker was my family Doctor for years. He brought my beloved daughter into the world. I had the privilege of working with him at Aurora Resthaven. He was so respected and loved.
Loved his magazine and his sailing adventures. We messaged each other as old friends especially when he was in Costa Rica. The pictures were amazing.
I am so sad.

Britta Litow nee Nielsen

December 1, 2022

Dr. Cocker was our family doctor. He saved my dad's life by making a house call and getting him to the hospital. I'll always be grateful for his wonderful caring.

Kirsty Bain RN (Retired)

November 30, 2022

Very sorry to hear about Dr Cocker´s passing. He was an inspiration to me and my nurse colleagues for decades at both Pine Ridge and Aurora Resthaven. Compassionate, caring, conscientious, always with a sense of humour, he was a favourite amongst our staff and residents.
Blessings for your years of dedicated service and a wonderful life well lived.

John and Phyllis Aurich

October 9, 2022

Both Phyllis and I were deeply sadden, when we head that John had passed. Over the years John had become a dear friend and we had many chats at the field. I will aways remember our time together.

Mike and Wendy Mitchell-Gill

October 9, 2022

Condolences and deepest sympathy to Monica and family. We will always remember John with a smile and a chuckle, and think fondly of the good times we had together.

John Cripps

October 9, 2022

John was definitely one of a kind physician, multitalented and very funny. John was the promoter of doctors getting together for Friday lunches in Newmarket. Despite his challenges with Parkinson´s disease John´s mind was brilliant and I never left a luncheon without laughing several times over witty, humorous things he would say.

John will be sadly missed by many colleagues, friends, and family especially his profound sense of humour.

Thank you John for the gift of what you shared with us.

May you Rest In Peace
John R. Cripps MD FRCSC (Emeritus)

Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

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