John E. Cook, 87, was granted his eternal gift to be with the Lord, on July 24, 2022. Despite serious medical issues in the past few years, he faced life with courage and laughter; holding his family close to the end. Born in Brooklyn, he lived in Woodhaven, Queens. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Viola and John Cook, his sibling, Sr. Maureen Cook, O.P, and his maternal grandmother Mary Scott. John earned his Bachelor's Degree at Fordham University and his Master's Degree at Hofstra University. Early in his career, he managed the Grants department store in Freeport, NY where he met the love of his life Carol, who worked in the pet department. He broke the company rules and secretly dated her; the beginning of an amazing sixty-three years of marriage. He proudly and distinguishably served as 1st Lieutenant in the US Army in Fort Bragg, NC., leading the 41st Field Artillery. He was affectionately known to family and friends as "Capt Cook"; sharing countless stories of his passion for Howitzers.

In college, he played in the marching band, and never ceased his love of music; from orchestrating marches to Irish music at family parties to playing imaginary drums in his hospital bed. His infectious laugh will resonate forever to all that came in contact with him, especially as he encouraged others to smile when taking pictures.

He ministered to Catholic churches for many years practicing his Faith and serving others as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, Singer, Boy Scout Leader, Knights of Columbus, and Hibernian. Though faced with countless struggles in life, he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles and taught his family, as he did in the military, and lead by example. He overcame his father's early death, and successfully overcame inherited disease and addictions. He will be lovingly revered by his wife, Carol of Coram, NY, and his children Debra (Steve) Tringali, Michael Cook, Cathy Cook, Judy (Lee) Depoian, and Carolyn (Steve) Canzona. John's legacy continues on through his fifteen grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.

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