Robert A. Cooke, of Brookhaven, PA, formerly of Sharon Hill, PA, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, at the age of 89. Born in South Philadelphia on June 12, 1936, Bob was one of 12 children raised in a proud Irish family.
He attended Bok Vocational School and went on to build a long and dedicated career in the printing industry. For 35 years, he worked as a Master Pressman and Foreman at Long’s Publishing Company until its closing. He then continued his craft with AFL Printing in Gloucester, NJ, and later served in the Penn-Delco School District for 13 years.
Bob was a longtime member and volunteer at Our Lady of Charity Church. He and his wife Ann treasured time spent at their vacation home in Marmora, NJ. A talented master carpenter, Bob loved tackling home projects and was always ready to fix something, a task he found true joy in.
Bob will be remembered for his gentle spirit, warm smile, and the twinkle in his eyes. His quiet sense of humor, especially his famous Donald Duck voice that brought laughter to so many children, was just one of his many endearing qualities. A devoted Philadelphia sports fan, especially of the Phillies, he also cherished fishing trips with his sons during their younger years.
Above all, Bob was a family man. His unwavering patience, kindness, and work ethic left a lasting legacy in his children and grandchildren. He was a loving husband, an exceptional father, and a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. Bob faced Alzheimer’s Disease with incredible strength and grace, never once complaining, even in the face of hardship.
He was the son of the late Matthew and Anne (née Diver) Cooke and was predeceased by his sons Stephen, Mark, and Robert W. “Bobby” Cooke.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Ann M. (née Schied) Cooke; his loving children Robin (Wayne) Merkle and Adam Cooke; his beloved grandchildren Stephen, Jennifer, Kevin, Brittany, Ryan, Luke, Drew, and Adrianna; and great-grandchildren Elliot, Juniper, Georgia, and Cameron. He is also survived by his sister Susan (Tom) Scott, his daughter -in- law Barbara Cooke and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Bob’s legacy of love, strength, and humility will live on in all who knew him.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, 3255 Concord Road, Aston, PA. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery.
To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Robert A. "Bob" Cooke, please visit our Tribute Store.