Illinois General Assembly - Full Text of HR0439

HR0439 LRB104 14633 ECR 27775 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Randall Lee "Randy" Cooke of Chatham, who passed away on July 29, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Randy Cooke was born to Rodney and Carol (Smith) Cooke in Bloomington on April 16, 1962; he graduated from Glenwood High School in 1980; he married Marleen Rae Sullivan in Springfield on June 8, 1985; and

WHEREAS, Randy Cooke worked as an operator at the Kincaid Generating Station for more than 20 years, and he served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT with the Chatham Fire Department for many years; and

WHEREAS, Randy Cooke was a member and past president of the TRN Lake Club and a member of Elks Lodge 158; he also served as president of the Sangchris Waterfowlers Association, where his leadership brought to life the Brett Creager Memorial Youth Outdoor Day event; he passionately advocated for organizations close to his heart, including Mid-America Transplant and the American Lung Association; and

WHEREAS, Randy Cooke was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and experiencing the beauty of nature; he enjoyed spending time at Sangchris Lake, hunting with his friends and making his cherished duck blind breakfasts; his greatest joy was found in sharing laughter and love with his grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Papa"; and

WHEREAS, Randy Cooke was a vibrant spirit known for his infectious humor, strong faith, quick wit, and his ability to make friends wherever he went; he leaves behind a legacy of warmth, strength, and an unshakable belief in the good in the world; and

WHEREAS, Randy Cooke was preceded in death by his mother; and

WHEREAS, Randy Cooke is survived by his wife of 40 years, Marleen; his children, Brandi (Eric) Goodin and Ryan (Abby Geist) Cooke; six grandchildren; his father; his sister, Kim (Dave) Sapetti; and numerous friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Randall Lee "Randy" Cooke and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Randy Cooke as an expression of our deepest sympathy.