Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Geoffrey Cook Obituary
Geoffrey "Cookie" Cook, passed away June 6, 2025, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a cherished husband, devoted father, and as an unforgettable leader in rugby communities around the world.
Born in Rotorua, New Zealand, Cookie found his life's passion early - picking up a rugby ball and playing with his mates at five years old. Barefoot and brave, from that moment on, the game became a lifelong pursuit.
His deep understanding of the sport, paired with his competitive spirit and unshakeable belief in his players, made him not just a coach but a mentor to many.
Cookie led both men's and women's teams to countless victories and championships, earning respect and admiration on and off the field.
Known for his quick wit and sharp humor, Cookie always wanted to get the best out of people, and had a remarkable ability to make people laugh, even in the toughest moments.
He was generous to a fault, always the first to offer help and be there for you. Whether you needed advice, a strong arm, or simply a listening ear, Cookie was there with warmth and that unforgettable twinkle in his eye.
His sense of adventure brought him on journeys far and wide, building connections and communities wherever he went.
Cookie was one of a kind. His impact cannot be measured, and his absence leaves a space that can never be filled.
He will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, former players, and the many lives he touched.
He is survived by his loving wife Ari and son Malakai, who will remember his legacy of love, strength, and relentless optimism.
Rest in peace Cookie. You gave your all, and then some.
Cookie's Family and Rugby family will celebrate his life Friday July 18 at 1 p.m. at WHINO (2nd Floor Ballston Quarter Mall) Arlington, VA.
Please RSVP https://evite.me/nkbtA6tyaF
Also, please consider making a donation to support his family during this difficult time: https://gofund.me/10c4ac91
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
David Qualischefski
August 18, 2025
Hey Cookie,
You have gone from this place but you will never be forgotten. I have known you for 40 years since those fun times playing rugby together in Townsville in the 80's/90's. Team photo attached with a young fresh faced Cookie. You were my best mate, best man, team mate and coach. My family and I will never forget your cheeky giggle and grin which we so loved. You'll be missed my friend. David Qualischefski
Murph
July 18, 2025
Rugby is like boxing. Sometimes it's like golf. At other times, it's like tennis.
RIP Cookie
Murph
Ian howes
July 18, 2025
Hey Cookie,
We have known each other for around 62 of our nearly 70 years .
Thats alot of junior club ,school, & rotorua rep. Team talks and
games.our team talks over the phone have now ended brother but as I look threw some of our old team photos there will be enough of you to make up a team and keep playing after your last game on earth later today until i arrive available for selection.
Travel safe,play hard,keep smiling
Till we meet again.
Over and out Howesy
Hippie
July 18, 2025
Great Coach Great Mentor Great Person Rest In Peace
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Robin Riviere
July 9, 2025
I have fond memories of Cookie´s often frank criticisms of my play and had honed my Cookie impression over the years reliving some of my best rugby memories. Rest easy Cookie and keep the pedal down in the El Camino...
Wayne Howes
July 8, 2025
When a mighty totara tree falls it leaves behind a thriving forest. Our condolences to Ari and Malakai. Cookie was always a leader, growing up in Rotorua, he was another big brother, in the Howes family,to help put me on the right track. I have many fond memories of the fun times we had Haymaking to earn money . It was hard work but Cookie always found a way to make it fun. Lots of wise thoughts providing guidance and support through good days and tough days. Aroha nui, Wayne and Ruth Howes
Ellen Treimel
July 8, 2025
I joined the DC Furies in 2008, and the positive impact of Cookie's coaching on the team spirit and culture was clear. May his memory be a blessing.
Ricci Newland
July 8, 2025
Ari and Malakai my condolences to you both
To Cookie it was a privilege and honor to have known you and coached by you up in Breckenridge with the Goose.
Glad I got to to talk to you before you went to coach the big team up in the sky.
Rest in peace pops
Ricci
Greg Robinette
July 7, 2025
Cookie was a treasure of a human being. I count myself lucky to have had him as both a coach and a friend. We shared a unique sense of humor-one that found joy in the absurd moments that so often swirled around the game of rugby. Even in the thick of practice or the heat of a match, Cookie had a way of catching my eye and reminding me to laugh.
We often reminisced about our time at NOVA, trading stories that seemed to get funnier and more glorified with age. Having come under his coaching later in my playing days, I think we vibed as guys from the same generation-cut from similar rough cloth, sarcastic perspective, and bound by a deep love for the game and the camaraderie it brings.
What I´ll miss most are the check-in calls. Cookie never stopped caring-he always wanted to know how I was, what I was up to, and to share a few memories.
His pitch will always be green in my mind, the ground soft underfoot, and the opposition just tough enough to make it fun. Rest easy, Cookie. You gave us your all-and then some.
Rory Lewis
July 7, 2025
So sad to hear that Cookie has transitioned. He will be missed. Rest In Power, my WRFC brother
Doug Mills
July 7, 2025
You will be missed brother. RIP
Rick Stafford
July 7, 2025
Cookie,
You will always be near & dear to my heart, despite not having played with you, or for you at NOVA RFC. Thank you for your gracious and courteous treatment of me as a veteran player and outspoken touchline commentator during matches.
Your humor and gentlemanly manners were greatly admired during post-game festivities and ad hoc visits during our hijinks at the Rooster.
Rest in Peace, my friend, you are missed!
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Make a Donation
in Geoffrey Cook's name
How to support Geoffrey's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Geoffrey Cook's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
