Lawrence C. Cocke, a distinguished lifeguard and passionate real estate investor, passed away from cardiac arrest at the age of 91. His death leaves a profound impact on family, friends, and the community he served throughout his life. Born in Long Beach and raised in El Segundo, Cocke was known for his vibrant personality and dedication to helping others.
Cocke graduated from El Segundo High School, where he developed a lifelong enthusiasm for swimming. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s degree in Psychology from Cal State University Dominguez Hills. His legacy includes two daughters, Lorie Plasencia and Linda Casias, as well as two step-daughters, Amie and Jenni Luke. He is also survived by three granddaughters, Tara, Sara, and Cara, and four great-grandchildren, Bella, Josie, Gabriela, and William, all of whom cherished their time with him.
Accomplished Career and Adventures
Cocke’s career as a lifeguard spanned over 22 years, where he earned respect and accolades, including the esteemed “Bronze Savage” award for his exceptional service. He was known for his remarkable rescues, including an incident where he rescued a sheriff’s deputy following a helicopter crash in the surf. Throughout his tenure, he never lost a soul during his rescue operations, earning admiration from his peers and the community.
Beyond his lifeguard duties, Cocke served as an explosive specialist in the U.S. Army, where he honed his skills in demolition. His athletic prowess was evident as he was an all-European water polo goalie and was even considered for the Olympics. Following his playing career, he shaped the sport as a respected referee in Southern California.
Cocke’s love for the ocean extended to deep-sea fishing, where he pursued trophies in locations like Alaska and Hawaii. He enjoyed being on the water, whether in his boat or paddling around Catalina Island. His zest for life was infectious, and he lived with vitality well into his later years.
A Life Filled with Love and Legacy
Real estate was another passion for Cocke, which he embraced from an early age. He invested in several apartment buildings and maintained a personal staff of nine, whom he trained to uphold high standards in their work. His adventurous spirit led him and his wife, Donna Jamison Cocke, to travel the world, exploring unique places and forging connections with interesting individuals.
Those who knew Cocke describe him as a remarkable man, filled with warmth, intelligence, and generosity. He inspired those around him to pursue their dreams with dedication and hard work. Cocke’s commitment to kindness and respect left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.
A celebration of Cocke’s life is planned to take place at his home in the near future. As friends and family gather to honor his memory, they reflect on a life well-lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
