Ronno Cooke

Ronno Lyndon Cooke, age 57, of Morganton, NC passed away Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 17, 1959 in Cleveland County to Ronald and Linda Cooke.

Ronno was an OSHA Safety Instructor and taught for several Community Colleges in WNC in subjects ranging from Green Energy to Construction. He had many technical careers in his life but teaching was, by far, his favorite employment. He valued sharing knowledge and empowering his students and those he came in contact with. His 2nd favorite career was woodworking/building custom furniture and cabinetry. He was a Master Craftsman and became internationally known for his exquisite woodworking ranging from tables of all sorts to counter tops, cabinets, benches, doors and headboards. He was also an outspoken advocate of social and environmental justice and used much of his time reading and educating in these subjects.

When he wasn't working, you could find him outdoors hiking, mountain climbing or kayaking. Both playing and listening to music was a very large part of his life and he played many instruments well. Socializing was also a big part of Ronno's life. It seems that everywhere Ronno went people knew him, no matter how distant. Ronno was loved by so many and it seems he made them all feel special because he really thought we are all so special and he genuinely wanted to know people. He loved so large and it was a real and reciprocal love we experienced with and from him.

Ronno is survived by his wife, Tracy Moss; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Cooke of Cherryville; daughters, Veronica Jones (Kris) of Vale, Hannah Honeycutt of, Lancaster, SC; sons, Christopher Cooke (Kristine) of Indian Land, SC, and Zachary Cooke of Indian Land, SC; Grandchildren, Ethan Baxter, Zane Baxter, Avrie Spencer, Raylee Honeycutt and Mason Bennet; brother, Rahn Cooke (Kim) of Lincolnton; grandmother, Mrs. Paul Cooke; Father-in-Law Ragon Moss (Beth) and Mother-in-Law, Elke Hartley. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Ferd Houser, and Paul Cooke.

Family will be holding a private burial. When the weather warms the family will be holding a celebration/memorial of his life -date, time & location to be announced.