Marlin James Cookman

Marlin James Cookman, known affectionately to friends and family as “Jim”, passed away on February 28, 2026, while in hospice in Brush Prairie, Washington. Born on June 12, 1933, in Bisbee, North Dakota, to Hosea and Eleanora Cookman. He was 92 years old. Jim lived a long and fulfilling life defined by service, devotion, and a remarkable retirement.

Jim was a patriot who proudly served in the United States Navy for four years. Following his time in the military, he settled in Sunnyvale, California, where he embarked on a distinguished career as a Public Safety Officer. He served the city with distinction for 21 years before embarking on a well-earned retirement that spanned the last 45 years of his life. Above all his professional accomplishments, Jim’s heart belonged to his wife, Gladys Joan Cookman. They shared 62 happy years of marriage together before her passing in 2016.

Jim leaves behind a loving legacy through his three daughters, Phyllis Peterson (Jeff), Patricia Cookman, and Pamela Marchetti (Mark), three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his companion of nine years, Kay Goodrich; brother Ronald Cookman; and his sister, Joyce Morris. He was proceeded in death by his beloved Gladys, his parents, and his brother, Larry Cookman. A man of Christian faith, Jim rests in peace having lived a life of integrity and kindness.