Bob passed away peacefully on Wed., June 2, 2010, at Community Memorial Hospital with his wife at his side. He was born on November 22, 1949 in Henderson, Nevada, the second of five rambunctious sons who kept life "interesting" for their parents, Dell and Iris Cook, growing up in Hermosa Beach, California. He graduated from Redondo Beach Union High School and received his BS and MA degrees from California State University, Long Beach.
Bob married Susan, the girl next door, on July 28, 1973, and they had two children, Heather and Todd. He worked as a Radiologic Technologist and Instructor at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center while earning his Masters degree in Healthcare Administration. During his career, he managed the Radiology Departments at Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego; Community Memorial Hospital, Ventura; and Santa Paula Hospital, Santa Paula. In 2003 he returned to teaching Radiology Technology at Santa Barbara City College. It was his passion and the work he was born to do.
Abraham Lincoln once wrote that "it's not the years in your life,...but the life in your years." Well, Bob was full of life and exuded boundless, positive energy. He was ready to play at a moment's notice and known to keep his trunk stocked with an assortment of boogie boards, balls, rackets and clubs. He always appreciated and enjoyed the simple things in life and was never without his smile, a box of donuts or a story. He loved our community, his job and the life we had built together. I will miss the countless times he would tell me he loved me each day.
Dad was the most wonderful father you could ever have asked for. He was a role model as a father and as a person. We don't have the words to express how much we will miss his kindness, his generous spirit, and all the ways in which he made us feel so special and unconditionally loved. He was always there for us no matter what the situation. He spoiled us all with kindness.
Dad was loved by all who knew him. We will forever remember his love for the beach, his coworkers , friends and students, poker games, fantasy sports, baseball games ( especially the Dodgers), going out to eat, and first and foremost his family who love and miss him so much. Dad, we love you more than we could have ever have told you and will cherish our memories of you forever.
Grandpa was special because he was funny and lovable. I really miss him.
Bob is survived by his wife, Susan; children, Heather ( fiancé, Doug) and Todd; precious granddaughter, Natalie; parents, Dell and Iris Cook; brothers and sisters-in-law, Herb and Lucy Cook, Rich and Karin Cook, Dell and Tammy Cook; two nieces and two nephews; and scores of friends. He is preceded in death by his brother, Hobreigh Cook.
A celebration of Bob's life will be held at 10 am, Saturday, June 12, 2010, Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to the Bob Cook Memorial Scholarship Fund, Foundation for SBCC, 721 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara 93109. Online donations can be made at www.sbccfoundation.org.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home & Crematory, Ventura. Condolences may be left at www.tedmayrfuneralhome.com.
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