In memoriam

Chris Cooke, a long-time board member, treasurer and past President (2014) of the Irish American Bar Association, passed away on May 25, 2026, Memorial Day, a fitting coincidence in honor of one of America’s heroes.

Chris was born in Rhode Island on July 26, 1959, one of twelve children. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1981 and flew Navy helicopters, often with special operations forces throughout the world, until he retired from the Navy Reserves in 2001 with the rank of Commander. Chris earned an MBA and JD from the University of San Diego and practiced tax law in San Diego for the last couple decades of his life.

Chris is survived by four children and their spouses, eight grandchildren, all his brothers and sisters, and twenty-eight nephews and nieces. Chris cherished time spent with his family above all else, whether attending United States Naval Academy events, hiking through national parks, sharing meals, or enjoying movies his children recommended.

A proud son of Ireland, Chris felt a strong attachment to the Emerald Isle, and he loved the IABA and the many friends he met through the IABA. Below are some photos of Chris from our events.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Brigid Parish on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception.