Los Angeles County Lifeguard Trust Fund and Alumni Association
Lawrence C. Cocke
April 2, 1934 – February 16, 2026
Lawrence C. Cocke died of cardiac arrest on February 16, 2026, at the age of 91. He was loved by all who
knew him. Donna, his wife, adored him and the adventures that they shared. She is devastated by the loss of her best friend and the love of her life.
Larry was born in Long Beach on April 2, 1934, and grew up in El Segundo where he developed a love for swimming. He graduated from El Segundo High School and held a master’s degree in psychology from Cal State University Dominguez Hills.
Larry lived life to the fullest. He was a celebrated Lifeguard Captain for 22 years and continued to value his time as an alumnus. Larry was once left for dead during a hurricane after being swept off the Baywatch Rescue Boat, rescued a sheriff’s deputy when a helicopter crashed in the surf and never lost a sole during all his rescues. He was the recipient of the “Bronze Savage” for his outstanding career.
Larry was an explosive specialist in the Army and knew how to blow up bridges.
Larry was an all-European water polo goalie and was sought by the Olympics. He continued his
career in water polo as a referee throughout Southern California.
Larry was an awarded deep-sea fisherman, which took him to Alaska and Hawaii for his
trophies. He loved being in and on the water, in his boat or paddling from Catalina.
Real Estate was a passion that he embraced from his early years and later indulged in the purchase of apartment buildings. His personal staff of nine was trained and directed by Larry to achieve a high standard.
Larry and Donna traveled the world to see unusual places and meet interesting people. They were never disappointed. Larry lived a full and celebrated life. He loved people and demonstrated a warmth, wit, intellectual sparkle, curiosity, dignity, and generosity that set him apart. With kindness and respect for others, Larry energized those around him and encouraged them to work hard for their dreams. We will dearly miss this remarkable, loving man who lives on in his legacy.
Larry accomplished everything that he planned to do and he continued to enjoy vitality into his
advanced years.
Larry is survived by his wife Donna, two daughters, Lorie Plasencia and Linda Casias and two
stepdaughters Amie and Jenni Luke. Three granddaughters, Tara, Sara, and Cara and four great
grandchildren, Bella, Josie, Gabriela and William. They all loved him dearly. His brothers, Paul, Joseph, and Alex Cocke were very close to Larry and often sought his guidance.