Phil Cookson - Class of 1980

From Phil’s family:

Tragically, we lost Phil Cookson in an unfortunate accident on Friday evening, January 26th. Phil was a loving husband, devoted father, and proud to have served his country in the Marine Corp. His family and friends will always remember him by his giving heart and witty sense of humor.

From the Marlin Baer family:

We remember Phil fondly because once we reconnected with him through the GHS Museum he shared memories of being coached by our dad, Marlin Baer, and how much our dad meant to him. 

We found family photos of Dad coaching Phil which thrilled Phil, when we shared them with him since he didn’t have any.  Also, pictured here are the other throwers as well as head track coach Roger Karnopp, who also had a great influence on Phil’s life.

Phil still holds the discus record at GHS of 183’10”; he competed at the California State meet, where he remembered that “he and our dad had a blast.”