Michael John Cocker – Mike

On 19th November 2024, peacefully in hospital, Mike, aged 78 years of Clayton-le-Moors. The dearly loved and loving husband of Sue, much loved dad of Eleanor and Benjamin, dear father in law of Tom and Jenny, devoted Pa of Little James, and loved brother in law of Avril and the late Kate. Also dear brother of Ian, and a loved and devoted son of the late Audrey and Arthur.

Mike began his working life in insurance, studying for his Maths A Level at night school. He attended London University and attained his maths degree and went on to become a truly extraordinary teacher. Mike’s teaching journey started at Notre Dame School in Blackburn before moving to Accrington College. It was here that Mike left an indelible mark on generations of students. He was not just a teacher; he was an inspiration. His patience, calm demeanour, and boundless enthusiasm for maths made him beloved by students and colleagues alike. Mike didn’t just teach maths – he lived it too. In his spare time, he could often be found scribbling equations or solving exam papers purely for the joy of it. When new exam formats were introduced, Mike would sit the exams himself, achieving perfect scores, a testament to his skill and unwavering commitment to his passion.  Away from maths, Mike was a steam train enthusiast and had a lovely collection of trains. He enjoyed East Lancashire Railways, and attended countless Gala weekends in Somerset, camera in hand, capturing the beauty and history of the trains he adored. At home, Mike loved the simple things in life – a well-made cheese and onion pie, walking, and watching quiz shows on TV. His role as a devoted family man was perhaps his most cherished. Becoming Grandpa to Little James brought him such happiness, and he embraced his ‘Pa’ role with such care and love. He adored their family cats and again, loved to take lots of photos of them, each year presenting the family with his home made cat calendar.

Mike was a true gentleman of great intellect, unwavering kindness, and loyalty. He was a teacher, a mentor, a train enthusiast, a family man, and above all, a kind and gentle soul. Much loved and deeply missed by his adoring family.

Donations in lieu of flowers are requested in memory of Mike on behalf of Friends of Pendle Community Hospital.  To make a donation, please click the blue donate button at the foot of this page.

Please feel free to leave a message for Mike’s online memorial book by completing the form below.

 

Christine and Peter Sa.son

In loving memory of my cousin Mike and friend and fellow railway enthusiast, Pete.

 

Cara Whittaker

Around 26 years ago, I met my friend Sue and soon got to know her family…and what a family! Loving, caring, welcoming and above all hilarious! Mike was an incredible person and would always invite me in when I called round for whatever reason. At times I was a snotty mess and he was always there to offer a cup of tea and a warm smile…although after many brews, he still never put enough milk in.

 

Sharon Liggins

So sorry to hear this very sad news about Mike. A lovely, lovely man, fondly remembered by me for helping out with our cats when they needed a holiday home with Sue and for the taxi rides to and from social gatherings back in the day. Thinking of you all. Xxx

 

Sarah Hill

In honour of my wonderful friend Eleanor’s father and James’s Pa. May you Rest In Peace x

 

Leanne Foley

Sending my love to you and your family Eleanor. You have all of your treasured memories and they are forever yours. What a wonderful man who will always be a part of you.

 

Margaret Holme

Such a sweet kind man. A loss to all.

 

The Ghaus Family

Rest in peace, Mike. Your legacy will forever live on in the lives you touched. ❤️

 

Mallika Bright

I loved reading about your father Benjamin, wish I had the opportunity to meet him.

 

Jenny Fisher (nee Woodcock)

So sorry to hear of Mike’s passing, sending you all lots of strength and love at such a difficult time x x

 

Dr. Jyotsna Eveline Reuben

I am truly sorry for your loss. Mike was such a kind and loving person, and his memory will always be cherished.” – “Sending you all my love and deepest sympathies during this difficult time.. Mike was a remarkable man who will be greatly missed.

 

The Holmes’

A wonderful man who will be missed by many. Sending our love to you all.

 

John Wilkin

One of the best teachers I ever had whilst at Accrington College. RIP Mr Cocker.

 

Rima Nathaniel Azam 

Please accept my heartfelt condolences to all bereaved family members, relatives and friends. May his soul rest in peace 🤲

 

Jeanette Blackwell-Mughal

Deepest sympathy to all the family.😢 uncle Mike was truly a Gentleman. So very sad.

 

Marion and David Heys

To us Mike was a gentle, smiling man who we are pleased to have known.

 

Charlotte and family

Mike was a gentle, kind and unassuming man, with a smile that warmed your heart.  He will be much missed, forever loved and fondly remembered.

 

Dermot Heron

Sue, Eleanor and Ben, I am truly sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your wider family during this difficult time. In my interactions with Mike, he was a gentleman who clearly adored his family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

 

Suseela Anthony

Please accept my heartfelt condolences Mrs Eleanor Cocker , Benjamin and the members of the family . My prayers are with you .We always heard rhat Mr John Cocker was a gentle loving person . We know that he would be greatly missed. . May his soul rest in peace in our Lords presence.

 

Peter and Debbie Law

Sending our love and condolences to you all. Mike was a lovely man and we will miss him at our family gatherings. You are in our thoughts.

 

Chris and Elaine Lockwood

The obituary sums up Mike so very well – he was a true, caring, lovely man. A true gentleman. Our love sympathies to the family.

 

Michael Dixon

I recall Mike teaching maths when I was an adult learner at Blackburn College. It is testament to Mike and his teaching that I eventually graduated from university and became what I am now. Fond memories of Mike’s lessons. Rest in Peace.

 

Joan Peter and family

Thinking of you all at this very sad times RIP Mike x x

 

Toby Webber

Such sad news – thinking of you all especially for the funeral.  God bless

 

Judith Williams

So sorry to hear about Mike.  Sending deepest sympathy and condolences to you all at this devastating time .

 

Marian Garry and family

In loving memory of Mike. Happy memories of a lovely man.

 

Steph and Paul

Words fall short in a time like this, to our wonderful friend Eleanor and all your family, we send our deepest sympathy. On the few occasions we had the pleasure of meeting Mike he was nothing short of a true gentleman, kind, smiley and warm. We hope the memories you shared together give you comfort. Love to you all.

 

Karen

Thinking of you all today especially auntie sue x so sad about uncle Mike such a kind and lovely person  god bless x

 

Cilla Blackwell

Uncle Mike was a lovely man, kind and caring. He will be missed by our family.x

 

Tegwyn Jones

Mike was such a gentle, kind and considerate person. He was an absolute gentleman and it was a privilege to have known him.

 

Tina and Peter Samson

In memory of Mike, with love.

 

Eleanor Law

Much love always Dad xxx

 

Ann Whitewick

Thinking of you all at this sad time.