William Thomas Cooke Jr. departed peacefully on July 15th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born to William and Erma Cooke in St. Louis on March 6th, 1938. He attended St. Barbara's elementary school '52, Mercy High School '56, and served in the Navy 1957-61. Proud member of the Prestigious Red Rippers Squadron. 

On a blind date in 1961, he met and fell in love with Caroline Kennah, and they married at St. Luke's in 1962. He spent a career as a branch manager for Beneficial Finance and moonlighted as a tour guide for Al's Tours. 

Bill was a generous soul who supported local and international Christian charities and volunteered for his church, Meals on Wheels, and at polling stations. He loved to travel, to walk, and root for the Cardinals. He is survived by children, Terri (and Tony) Allen, Bill (and Michelle) Cooke, Debbie (and Joe) Ruma, Michael (and Liz) Cooke, 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and sister Dorothy Cooke. 

Visitation Mon. July 20th from 4-8p.m. at John L. Ziegenhein County Chapel, 4830 Lemay Ferry Road. Mass Tues. July 21st @ 10am at Assumption Catholic Church, 4725 Mattis Road. Interment following Mass at Jefferson Barracks. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cardinal Glennon Children's Foundation or the St. Louis Peregrine Society.