Todd Brian Cooke

Todd Brian Cooke passed away on March 16, 2023, after a short, but valiant fight with cancer, surrounded by his wife and siblings. He was a graduate of T.C. Roberson High School, class of 1989, and Appalachian State University. Todd was the best of us. As a nearly lifelong resident of Asheville, his bright shock of ginger hair, smooth baritone voice, and infectious humor were known and loved in the local hospitality community where he spent much of his career. Todd knew no strangers and many folks claim him as their first real friend in Asheville, making them feel seen and welcome. While Todd’s friends meant the world to him, his first great love was his family. His wife Anomaly and kiddo Jay were his sun and moon and spending time with them brought him joy and wonder. Whether hiking a local trail, spending time at his favorite Disney parks, or camping in their funky, cool Airstream ”Elroy”, family time was the best time for Todd. Add in a couple of dogs, an extra kid, and a batch of s’mores and life could get no sweeter. As the youngest of five, the family was always a priority and a source of fun and adventure for Todd. His family bonded over camping trips in a crowded motorhome and idyllic summers in New Hampshire at their family home on Lake Winnipesaukee. Years after the home was sold, the tales continued amongst the siblings, getting taller with each retelling. Todd was a man of varied interests, the first of which was his absolute passion for music. He was often the first in his group of friends to find new bands and genres, honing in on new and undiscovered music to share with others. When he wasn’t spending time with his family, Todd was often found in Sierra Nevada, where he worked as a bartender for 8 years. He worked hard and enjoyed his job, striving to create a family-like atmosphere among his coworkers, who could always count on him for a friendly smile and an encouraging word. When Jay was about 6 years old, the family discovered the wonderful world of Disney, and it was a destination they returned to over and over again, making lifetime memories together at the Happiest Place on Earth. Last year, the trio took the trip of a lifetime, with stops at Disneyland, Paris, and Iceland. Anomaly and Jay will treasure this memory forever. Todd was predeceased by his parents, Tom and Sandra. He is survived by his wife, Anomaly, and child Jay, brothers Tom (Brenda) of Charlotte, Terry (Louise) of Woodinville, WA, Tim (Jackie) of Great Falls, MT, and sister Tammy (Gray) of Charlotte. and a gaggle of nieces and nephews, and last but not least, a loyal and loving group of friends. And for all the old-school Ashevillians, we’ll sign off with Todd’s favorite greeting, “Hi, welcome to Broadway’s”.

Tributes

Todd Brian Cooke

August 18, 1971 - March 16, 2023