Charles "Wicky" Cocker Jr., 84, of Old Forge, died Saturday at Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore, after an illness. His best friend and beloved wife of 61 years is Mary Ferguson Cocker. The couple was married on May 20, 1960.
Born on June 18, 1937, and raised in Scranton, son of the late Charles Sr. and Beatrice Rogers Cocker, Charlie was educated at the former Scranton Technical High School before proudly serving his country for eight years, four in the United States Air Force and for another four years in the United States Navy, before an honorable discharge from service.
Possessing an incredible work ethic, Charlie worked until 79 years of age. He spent 26 years in the maintenance department of Community Medical Center and upon "retirement," another 15 years of work for UPS.
Charlie was certainly adored by all who knew him due to his friendly nature and unforgettable humor. He was a fantastic storyteller and a complete joker armed with a never-ending supply of bad jokes. Kind-hearted, he would help anyone in need.
He loved playing baseball, having played softball into his 60s. He also loved golfing and was a fixture in several local bowling leagues. Of Roman Catholic faith, he was a longtime member of Prince of Peace Parish in Old Forge.
He'll forever be loved, especially by his four grandchildren who were adored by their "gramps."
He is also survived by his three loving children, Charles Cocker III and wife, Melissa, Moscow; Kathleen McNerney and husband, Timothy, Old Forge; and Michael Cocker, Old Forge; four grandchildren, Ryan McNerney, Lindsay, Charles IV and Kaitlin Cocker; a stepsister, Margaret "Peggy" Noone, Scranton; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Willard Cocker.
His family would like to acknowledge and thank the entire staffs of both Hospice of the Sacred Heart and the VA Medical Center for the exceptional care and compassion Charlie received while under their care.
The funeral will be Friday at 9:15 a.m. from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge, with a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Prince of Peace Parish, Old Forge, to be celebrated by Rev. August Ricciardi, pastor. Burial with full military rites by the AMVETS Honor Guard will follow at Cathedral Cemetery. Family and friends may pay their respects Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in Charlie's name to the Lackawanna Blind Association, c/o 228 Adams Ave., Scranton, PA 18503; or to the DMVA, c/o DMVA Office for Veterans Affairs, Bldg. 0-47, Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA 17003-5002. Please visit the funeral home's website for directions or to leave a condolence.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Kearney Funeral Homes.
4 Entries
Ted Rosencrans
October 17, 2021
Had so many fond memories of "Mr. Cocker" Our families spent much time together through Little League, and then Bowling League for many years. He enjoyed life and always greeted you with a smile. Resting in the care of Jesus Christ.
Jo Anne pazzalia
October 8, 2021
My heart is broken, worked with Charlie at CMC. So sorry . He was a fun person a lot of laughs. He will be remembered. Prayers to his family.
Charlene
October 5, 2021
I am so sorry to hear about Charlie´s passing he´s a very nice man I enjoyed working with him . He always reminded me of my uncle.
Lucy and Tom Edwards
October 5, 2021
Dear Mary, Charlie, Kathleen, Mike and family
My deepest sympathy to all of you on Charlie's passing. No words can take away your sadness but please know that Charlie was a source of joy to so many people. I will never forget his sense of humor, his strong love of family, and the kindness he showed to me as a struggling student nurse all those years ago. Know that you are all in my prayers this week and always.
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