Bob Cooke, VE3BDB SK
Former RAC President
Radio Amateurs of Canada has received the sad news that former RAC President, Bob Cooke, VE3BDB, became a Silent Key on October 4, 2021.
The following information was extracted from the online obituary notice.
“Robert Douglas Cooke passed away peacefully at The Pines Long Term Care, in Bracebridge, Ontario on Monday, October 4, 2021 at age 76.
Predeceased by his parents Frank Cooke and Alma Peachey. Loving father of Rob; and Dave and his wife Jill. Dear Grandpa to Lucas and Annie. Brother of Jack Cooke and his wife Marie; and Maybeth Coyne. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.”
Originally from Parry Sound, Bob Cooke, VE3BDB, developed an interest in communications at a young age, beginning as a shortwave listener. He spent many hours listening to stations on a vintage AM military radio, becoming well-versed in radio operating terminology and techniques.
While in high school he joined the Royal Canadian Army Cadets and was introduced to The Wireless Set No. 19 World War II mobile radio transceiver, on which he trained at Camp Borden (now Canadian Forces Base Borden), receiving his Canadian Army Group 1 Signals certificate and subsequently becoming a Cadet Instructor for the 19 Set.
Bob pursued his interest in radio as a Communications Operator (Com-Op) in the Royal Canadian Air Force and later with the Canadian government’s Department of Transport Telecommunications Branch, Air Services Division.
Bob was a member of the Canadian Amateur Radio Federation (CARF) and he held several positions with Radio Amateurs of Canada including Assistant Director, District Emergency Coordinator, Regional Director, Vice-President Field Services and President. He was also the co-founder of the Parry Sound Amateur Radio Club and he served on the Executive of the Orillia Amateur Radio Club.
A RAC Certified Emergency Coordinator and recipient of several certificates in the area of emergency management and communications training, Bob held Amateur Radio call signs VE3BDB, VE3BD, VA3BDB, VA3VBE and VA3ROR.
In his professional life he served as a member of the Ontario Provincial Police for 30 years including 11 years at OPP General Headquarters.
RAC would like to extend its sincere condolences to his family and friends. A tribute article will be included in an upcoming issue of The Canadian Amateur magazine.
The funeral service was held on Friday, October 15, but you can share your memories and offer your condolences in an online Guest Book.
Phil McBride, VA3QR
RAC President and Chair