ROCKPORT — David Kenneth Cooke, 48, of Rockport, died unexpectedly Oct. 20, 2014, from natural causes at his home.

Born June 19, 1966, in Illinois, he was the son of Kenneth and Joyce Cooke. He grew up north of Chicago and chose to live in the most beautiful parts of the country over the years, including Oregon, Colorado and finally coastal Maine.

Dave was a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and was the former owner and chef of Amalfi in Rockland, and more recently a chef at the Hartstone Inn in Camden. He dedicated his life to his craft of cooking, and his food had a strong following throughout Maine and further abroad.

Dave is remembered for his youthful spirit and his passion for the culinary arts. He took great joy in his many friendships, a round of golf and making meals special for the people who came into his restaurants over the years. Dave was a thrifty man, who could solve any problem presented to him with what seemed no effort at all. In short, he was a valued member of our community, and one who will be missed dearly by many.

Dave is survived by his partner of 20 years, Nancy Wood of Rockport, and her son Jamie; his father, Kenneth Cooke of Illinois; his sister, Lisa Harrison of Kansas City, her husband, Tim, and two nephews; as well as many extended family members and close friends.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Nov. 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Rockland Golf Club, 606 Old County Road in Rockland

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to The Good Shepherd Food Bank, 3121 Hotel Road, Auburn, ME 04210; 207-782-3554, gsfb.org.