Richard Cook

It is with both deep sorrow and a joyous celebration of life that we announce the passing of Richard N. "Dick" Cook, who left this world on January 14, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on April 2, 1955, in Plattsburgh, son of the late Norman and Marie (Burgoyne) Cook.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy for two years before embarking on a lifelong career as a union painter, working for the Painters & Allied Trades District Council. Known for his construction skills and dedication, he was a trusted craftsman and a local handyman always willing to lend a helping hand.

He was a devoted father to his children; Kerry Reome of Massena, Bobbi Jo Russell of Massena, Nathan LaShomb of Massena, Nicole Cook of Castleton on the Hudson, Raymond Cook of Hyde Park, Richard Cook of Norwich, He was predeceased by his eldest son Shawn A. Cayea,-Though some of his children were from earlier relationships, Richard never made distinctions when it came to love and fatherhood-he embraced them all as his own and loved them deeply. That same spirit extended beyond his immediate family; whether as a Papa, uncle, cousin, father in law or close friend, Richard was always ready to lend a helping hand and offer his support to anyone in need.

In February of 1979, Richard married the love of his life, Peggy (Rufa) Cook, and together they built a family full of love and adventure.

He is survived by his loving wife Peggy; his children and their spouses; his siblings; Sharon and Jerry Locy of Norfolk, Joanne "Evie" and Lance Gibson of Phoenix, NY, Susan and Tracy Phillips of Brasher Falls and Margaret Tyo of Massena, his grandchildren; Ashley Cayea, Hannah Cayea, Brenden Flanagan, Rilee Flanagan, Kali LaShomb, Kaleb LaShomb, Ronnie Reome, Haley Reome, Harper Gibson-Cook, Joel Gibson-Cook, Ashlyn Russell, Madayzia Russell, Owen Russell and Quinnton Kemison, and 5 great-grandchildren Besides his parents and son,he was predeceased by a brother Norman "Joe" Cook, Jr, and a sister, Debra McGregor.

Dick will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Dick was a man who stood out in a crowd-rambunctious, full of life, and never afraid to speak his mind. He had a way of making people laugh and was always the one to turn a gathering into a celebration. He found joy in snowmobiling, hunting, and camping, embracing the great outdoors with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything in life.

While we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we are also reminded to celebrate his legacy. A gathering will be held on May 12, 2025, at Pikes Place, 138 County Route 50, Brasher Falls, NY, from 3 pm to 6 pm, where friends and family will come together to honor Richard's life-sharing stories, laughter, a meal, and love, just as he would have wanted. In his memory, we invite everyone to wear something green, his favorite color, as a simple tribute to the vibrant and generous spirit he shared with us all.

Arrangements are entrusted with Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop, where memories and condolences can be shared at www.hammillfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, Inc.

Rest easy, Richard. Your spirit will live on in the stories, the laughter, and the hearts of those who loved you.