New Ipswich, NH – John Cooper Cooke, 87, of New Ipswich, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, after a brief illness.
Born on May 12, 1939, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, John was the son of the late L. Anson Cooke and Ruth Livingston Cooke. He grew up in Methuen, Massachusetts, as one of eleven children.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Constance Blais Cooke; his daughter, Margret Ruth Cooke; his son-in-law, David Crowley; and his cherished granddaughter, Alice Crowley. He is also survived by his siblings Frederick Cooke, Nancy Deacon, Cynthia Farnham, and Susan Scheffler. He was predeceased by many of his brothers and sisters.
A lifelong scholar and educator, John attended the University of Massachusetts, where he earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in Botany. He later received his Ph.D. from the University of Georgia in Mycology, reflecting the breadth of his intellectual curiosity and academic interests.
John began his teaching career as a professor at Elizabethtown College in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. He subsequently joined the faculty of the University of Connecticut, where he taught for more than thirty years. During his distinguished career, he shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with generations of students in biology, botany, marine science, and mycology. In 1976-1977 he conducted research at the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa, Canada. During his career he was an active member of the North American Mycological Society. He retired from the University in the 1990s as Professor Emeritus.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, John pursued many passions. He was an enthusiastic admirer of Gilbert and Sullivan and performed in numerous productions of their operettas. He also had a deep and abiding interest in genealogy, spending countless hours researching family histories and helping others discover their roots. In retirement, he volunteered with the American-Canadian Genealogical Society in Manchester, New Hampshire, where he generously shared his expertise and love of family history.
John will be remembered for his keen intellect, humor, generosity, curiosity, and devotion to his family. He touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, friends, and relatives, leaving behind a legacy of learning, kindness, and service.
A graveside service will be held on June 12, 2026 at 1p.m. at Central Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life at The Club at Oak Hill both in New Ipswich, New Hampshire.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Salvation Army of Northern New England, 297 Cumberland Ave., Portland, ME 04101.
The arrangements are in the care of the Michaud Funeral Home, 32 Maple St., Wilton, NH. To leave a condolence, please visit our web site at www.michaudfuneralhome.com
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