Dennis Cooke (OK Staff)

Dennis Cooke (OK staff) died 15 February 2026

Born in Ballymena, County Antrim in 1943, Dennis Cooke was educated at Ballymena Academy where his love for languages began. He went on to study French and German at Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Strasbourg, becoming a devoted evangelist for the cultures of both countries. 

After graduating, Dennis returned to Northern Ireland to take up his first teaching post at his alma mater. It was while working at Ballymena Academy that he met a fellow teacher named Mary, the woman he would marry and spend the rest of his life with. 

In 1970, the couple moved to Dortmund, Germany after Dennis was invited to develop the language department for Cornwall, the British Army school in the city. Over 15 years living in the Ruhr, Dennis and Mary started a family while Dennis also played a leading role in the school’s sports activities and theatrical productions. 

In 1985, Dennis, Mary and their four children returned to Britain after he accepted a teaching post at King’s College Wimbledon, which he served with distinction for 21 years. In that time, he became Housemaster for Maclear, coached the 1st XV rugby team, leading school tours to New Zealand and Fiji, and was Head of the Common Room.

Dennis loved teaching and was loved by the pupils he taught. Over more than two decades he became an integral part of Kings College life, sharing his passions and infectious enthusiasm across a wide variety of activities that enriched the experience for all those involved. 

From organising school ski trips to his leadership of the CCF, to playing the role of Old Pyper in the Frank McGuinness play ‘Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme’, spearheading the Tübingen exchange program and masterminding an unbeaten season for the 3rd XI football team, Dennis brought warmth, humour and intelligence to the relationships he forged with pupils and staff.

Dennis Cooke was proud of his Irish heritage, and remained a staunch supporter of the Ireland rugby team. After retiring in 2006, he and Mary spent much of their time in France before returning to their native Ireland in later years. A proud husband, father and grandfather, he loved to socialise and was a beloved figure to his family and many friends. Dennis passed away on 15th February after a long illness. He is survived by his wife Mary and his four children, Paul, Jason, Alex and Pippa.