ENS Cooke became a Naval Aviator on October 15, 1982 at HT-18, NAS Whitting Field, Milton, Florida.  ENS Cooke was Navy Helicopter Pilot Designator Number #R-16855.

Born in Newport, Rhode Island on July 26, 1959, to Harry Aidan and Margaret Theresa Cooke, Christopher Sean Cooke passed away peacefully on Monday morning, May 25, 2026, at the age of 66. Raised in Bowie, MD and a long time resident of San Diego, Chris lived a life defined by service, leadership, intellect, and devotion to family and community. Known affectionately to many as “The Commander,” he leaves behind a legacy marked by generosity, integrity, and unwavering dedication to others.

Chris graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He proudly served as a Navy helicopter pilot from 1981 to 1990 and continued his military service in the Navy Reserves until 2001, retiring with the rank of Commander.

A proud Eagle Scout and Naval Officer, Chris devoted himself to mentoring and guiding young people. He served as a Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer, Cub Scout Master, and Scoutmaster for Troop 170, where he positively influenced generations of young men and women through leadership, encouragement, and example.

Professionally, Chris worked for several defense contractors while pursuing his lifelong ambition of building his own law practice. A devoted scholar and lifelong learner, he earned both his Master of Business Administration and Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego, focusing his legal studies on estate planning and taxation. After years of practice and mentorship, he founded the The Cooke Law Firm, later rebranded as the Tax Law Center, where he proudly worked alongside his youngest son, Colin.

Above all else, Chris cherished time spent with his family. Whether attending Naval Academy events, hiking through national parks, “Happy Hour” with his kids and grandkids, or enjoying films recommended by his children, he found his greatest joy in the people he loved most.

Chris is survived by his children and their spouses: Sara and Brian; Sean and Chanda; Patrick and Natalie; and Colin. He is also survived by his beloved siblings and their spouses: H. Martin and Marcia; Paul and Susan; Mark and Scott; Monica and Roy; John; Sara and Jeffery; Mary and Michael; Elizabeth and Matthew; Dorothy and Louis; Peter; and Theresa and Christopher along with 28 nieces and nephews. His legacy will live on through his eight cherished grandchildren: Jack, Molly, Luke, Mark, Makenna, Scott, Aidan, and Liam.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Brigid Parish in San Diego, CA on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. PT.