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Harry Cooke Obituary
Shortly after graduating from Norwich Free Academy, Harry met his beloved wife Betty Cooke at the local skating rink. A few years later, Harry enlisted in the United States Army. He worked as a mechanic while in the Army, and served in the Korean War. While enlisted, Harry married his love, Betty.
Upon arriving home, Harry and Betty settled into a quaint section of Jewett City, where they raised their two daughters, Cindy A. Cooke and Betsy L. (Cooke) Runkle. Harry was a career mechanic specializing in automotive body work. He worked at local shops until his retirement where he pursued his love of the outdoors working for the DEEP. Harry enjoyed fishing, boating and anything on the ocean, but what he cherished the most was time with his family. He loved his sweet little dog Sheena. He was also a member of the French and Polish clubs as well as the local V.F.W.
In addition to his wife Betty, he is survived by two daughters, Cindy and Betsy; son-in-law John Runkle; two granddaughters, Lyndsey E. Buffin and Kylie R. Buffin; a sister Donna Burleson and her husband Doug; nephews, Brian Smith and William Smith; nieces, Suzanne Ninteau and Beth Covino; and several cousins. He was predeceased by brothers, Frank Cooke and William Cooke.
Visitation will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 12, at the Leffler Funeral Home, 30 N. Main Street, Jewett City. Due to COVID-19 regulations, social distancing and facial coverings/masks are required. For the online memorial, visit www.lefflerfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Harry Cooke
Sponsored by Griswold Funeral Home & Crematory - Jewett City.
Audrey Grenier
April 14, 2021
My sincere Sympathy to the family.
Lisa Amado
April 14, 2021
Mrs. Cooke, Cindy & Betsy, I'm deeply saddened to hear of your loss. your are all in my thoughts and prayers. He was such an amazing man, and I'm so happy to have known him.
Lisa Amado
Norwich
Raymond Gravelin
April 13, 2021
It was a privilege to know Harry. My first recollections going back to the late 1970's. Harry worked with Rich & Randy Sulvestri at Body shops in and around the Norwich area. I met Betty, his wife, at the Jewett City Trust Co. I had a checking account and mortgage there.
Harry even worked for me at the Harris Graphics Co in Pawcatuck, CT in the cylinder assembly department.
It was a pleasure to know him.
Peace by with his family.
Bill Smith
April 12, 2021
My Uncle Harry was great. He is part of so many childhood memories in Connecticut. Always was good for a fishing story or a laugh. So unique and so fun!
He and my mom had such a great relationship. She loved him so much.
He was a must see whenever he came south to visit.
Bobby Aubin
April 12, 2021
Captain Cooke you will be missed we had many great times working at many car dealers together R.I.P my friend.
Brian Jason Smith
April 12, 2021
Uncle Harry was the BEST uncle!! Maybe not the greatest influence all the time, but that's exactly what a young boy wants in an uncle. I will never forget our Super Bowl bets, jumping on elevators, him pulling the red chord in grandma's hospital room just to see what happened, and all the stories he used to tell. I remember visiting when I was a kid and he would cook me whatever I wanted for breakfast. He lived a great life and will be greatly missed.
Alan Lisee
April 12, 2021
We would like to express our sincerest condolences to Betty and the family. We will always remember what a wonderful person Harry was, especially to our youngest son, Austin. He helped Austin experience fishing and Harry shared his love for the outdoors. He will be greatly missed. Always, Alan & Anneli
glen chenette
April 12, 2021
Betty and family. Harry was a great guy and I'll miss him.
Jeanne Gillis
April 12, 2021
Sorry for your loss Betty.
Rosemary Sharkey
April 12, 2021
Harry was always nice to us. Arnie had a many good laughs with
Harry. Use to work with Betty & knew both of them. Our prayers & thoughts go out to famly & friends. God Bless.
DONALD and SHIRLEY WALSH
April 12, 2021
So very sorry Betty and family.
Barbara Boisvert
April 11, 2021
Betty and girls. So sorry for your loss
Donna Burleson
April 11, 2021
The best big brother a girl could ask for ! I will miss you forever, and forever hold the memories I have in my heart ! Love your little Sis Donna
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results
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Griswold Funeral Home & Crematory - Jewett City30 North Main Street, Jewett City, CT 06351
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