Cookes Furniture have paid tribute to chairman Graham Cooke following his death at the age of 72.
In a statement, Cookes said: “It is with great sadness the Cooke family announces the passing of Graham Cooke of Cookes Furniture.
“Graham passed away peacefully from cancer on Sunday 2 February, surrounded by his family.”
Sutton Coldfield-born Graham joined his father in the family business after leaving college.
They opened Cookes’ first showroom in Jockey Road in the late 1970s and went on to open the renowned Goosemoor Lane premises in Birmingham.
Graham (pictured) was responsible for extending and developing the showroom as the business flourished in the 80s and 90s.
Through his love of boats and the South Coast, he saw an opportunity in Christchurch, Dorset, and opened a second showroom in 1993.
In recent years, Graham opened two self-storage sites, to complement the retail business and further expand the Cookes group.
Graham will also be remembered for his contributions to the local community, through his support of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Fun Run, as well as several local charities and organisations.
Cookes' statement continued: “Graham devoted his life to the family business and was incredibly proud when the third generation of the Cooke family joined him in the business.
“Graham’s incredible work ethic and business acumen established him as a leader in the furniture industry.
“Known for his warmth and generosity, Graham treated every customer as a friend.”
Graham is survived by wife Lindsay, three daughters Michelle, Vanessa and Jennifer, sister Eleanor and his 10 grandchildren.
