Dorothy "Dottie" Cooke (Gillis)

A 56 year resident of Sacramento aged 76, Dottie passed peacefully at her home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with lung cancer. She was born to Doug and Helen Gillis in Oroville. She now rejoins her beloved husband of 41 years, the late Sgt. James Cooke of the Sacramento PD, as well as her sister the late Helen Ryan. The eldest of 5 siblings, she moved from Oroville to Sacramento in 1959. She enjoyed her early work as a teller for Crocker Bank. She met "Big Jim" at a mutual friends' home and instantly fell in love. After their marriage, she went on to be a devoted housewife, loving mother and resourceful homemaker including being a master craft maker and selling Avon cosmetics. She loved to sew and was an excellent tole painter. In the late 70's, she owned Nana's Boutique in the 57th St. Antique Mall. She was known for her "Elephant Chains" which she sewed for family & friends and were a big hit in her boutique. She retired in 2000 from the Sac. Med. Clinic after working 14 years as an X-ray technician. She had a knack for decorating, flower arranging and was always re-decorating her home. Her favorite place to travel was Hawaii enjoying all the islands especially Kauai where her sister Helen lived. Dottie had a sharp sense of humor with a hint of sarcasm. All who knew her were instantly warmed by her generous and witty personality. In her later years she enjoyed going to the local casinos for penny slots with anyone who was willing! She was a constant confidant, mentor and protector of her daughter and granddaughter. She is survived by her daughter Cheryl Howell (Brent) and son Richard Cooke. She will also be deeply missed by her granddaughter Ashley Stahley, siblings: Gerry (Don) Pasquetti; Douglas (Sherry) Gillis; Richard Gillis and brother-in-law Robert Cooke. She was also much loved by several nieces & nephews. The family extends their gratitude to those who were able to attend the service which was held at St. Mary's Cemetery Chapel (6700 21st Ave.) on Monday, 11/17 at 1:00pm. She will be sadly missed and remain forever in our hearts.