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Gregory Cook Obituary
Gregory L. Cook rests at the age of 65. Beloved brother to Brent, Robin, and Chris, and his sons Brandon and John. His smile & love for and from all that met him, and his city of Cincinnati. Services held at the convenience of the family. Geo. H. Rohde and Son serving the family.
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Memories and Condolences
for Gregory Cook
Rosebud
January 22, 2026
Dear Greg,
How could I ever forget you? You helped me become the person I am today, sweetie. You are forever missed. I hope you've found peace and are throwing touchdowns every day. MMVP
Rosebud
November 20, 2025
Happy heavenly birthday, dear one. Memories of you are never far away. xo
James B. Allen
August 3, 2025
You will always be my favourite football player. I was 14 in 1969 and just becoming passionately interested in football. God Bless You Greg. Not for what might have been but just for the light you brought.
Rosebud
January 22, 2025
Cookie!! How can it be that 13 years have passed since you left us?? I miss you so much - and so much more to catch up with... My heart still breaks from you passing. Know I keep you in my heart. xo
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Carol Hurley Law
December 18, 2024
Greg lived next door to us, on Caroline Drive in Chillicothe. His dad Barton owned 2 outdoor movie theatres in the 1950s. Mom Mary Elizabeth worked in the snack shop. Movies were shown during the warmer months. Greg and brother Brent could go to show on the first nights. I was in high school and went along as sitter. We watched in the car and could have all the free snacks we wanted. (Robin and Chris were born later.)
My mother Irene Hurley was best friends with Mary Elizabeth and later with GMother McCulty when she moved to Chillicothe from Dayton. Greg´s Dad, Barton, was a fine football player also, and strongly encouraged Greg in that direction.
The talented boy I knew surely holds a lasting place in the annals of American football as well as in the art world. He loved painting as a child, and was an art major at UC.
Rosebud
January 22, 2024
Thinking about you, my MMVP, on this day. Miss you dear friend.
Rosebud
August 15, 2023
I can´t believe it´s 11 years without you my friend. I miss our times together. xo
Caroline McCoy
January 29, 2023
Watching today's game believing you're leading the charge! Miss you, Good Buddy!
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
January 22, 2023
Gone, but NEVER forgotten, Greg! As you look down from up above, please put in a good word with the BIG GUY for me. Always, Linda
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
January 22, 2022
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
January 22, 2022
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
January 22, 2022
I still think of you often, Greg. When I hear the Cincinnati Bengals or the Kansas City Chiefs. I wish I could have done more to support you my friend. I still hang your watercolor of the Cincinnati Bengal in my foyer. I'll never forget you my dear.
Caroline McCoy
January 22, 2021
Greg's Chillicothe High School classmates and everyone in this hometown that he loved as it loved him forever misses him.
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
January 22, 2021
Gregory still holds a place in my heart to this day. I pray Brandon and the rest of his family are healthy and doing well.
Caroline McCoy
April 24, 2014
To Greg's Family from Greg's High School Friend: Please send me a current e-mail address so I can send you some old articles I've scanned. God Bless You All!
rosebud
November 20, 2013
Wishing you a happy birthday up there. Miss you.
Dan Kratzer
March 27, 2013
May you rest in peace-Caught a couple of Greg's passes in Kansas City when we both were at camp with the Chiefs, after both had been released by Bengals...Wonderful guy
Jacob Asher
February 10, 2013
Mr. Cook, I love watching old film of you playing, When I was young kid in 1969 and 70 Id put on my bengal helmet and go in backyard and play by myself, throwing the ball up in air and catching it. Id start each play being Greg Cook and ended the play being Bob Trumphy
January 30, 2013
Caroline McCoy
January 30, 2013
I and our class of '65 classmates continue with you in our hearts & dear memories as well.
rosebud
January 29, 2013
You've been gone a year, dear friend. I missed you every single day. XO
Diana Hromish
December 28, 2012
A beautiful soul, I had the pleasure to work with Greg in the late 70's. He made his mark on this earth, as he shall in the beyond. My sympathies to family and friends.
Rikki Schlensker
February 22, 2012
I loved you like a father Greg and I will miss our talks. I've never met anyone with a sense of humor that mirrored mine and how we always knew what each other was thinking. I can't wait to see you in another "dimension." Thanks for being the best company ever. I will miss you. Life won't ever be the same.
Connie Waters
February 11, 2012
I was shocked to hear about Greg's passing at the hair dresser. I do not get the newspaper, and my hair stylist ask me if I knew. Greg graduated with my Husband Joe Waters. I met Greg back in 1981 at the grocery store. He was in front of me at the check-out, and we walked out together to our cars talking. He was very nice, and kind to me. I told him my name, and he remembered Joe. I told him my friends would not believe that I had talked to the Greg Cook who played for the Bengals. Greg came to our home later that week, we had a nice visit. Greg was a genuine down to earth man. Joe passed away on February 18, 2008 at the age of 60, he would of been 61 in Sept. I am very sorry for Greg's family. I did not know his family, but I do know how hard it is to have a love one to pass away. My prayers go out to you all. God bless you all, and be with you through the coming days ahead.
Connie Waters, Chillicothe, Ohio
Butch Foreman
February 10, 2012
We are saddened by the sudden death of Greg. There are no words to express our sympathy. Greg's football exploits speaks for themselves. He was great! May God bless his family and friends. Butch Foreman#70 and Chuck Foreman(Greg 's golf partner)
February 7, 2012
February 6, 2012
I was saddened to learn of Greg's passing. We were team mates at UC. Greg was a naturally outstanding QB. His legacy is respected and admired. To the family, may God bless. Tony Jackson Co-Captain 1868.
Albert Hallenberg
February 5, 2012
This past November I arranged for Greg to speak at the Main Library. Greg's presentation was informative & entertaining, even though I now realize he was ailing. Greg was a walking encyclopedia on football and on any other subject, really. He was a generous, warm-hearted person who will be missed greatly.
Tom Selfridge
February 5, 2012
I wish to add my deep regret in learning of Greg's passing. To his family my prayers and thoughts to remember the great energy, talent, and love of your Dad, husband , and son. I have always thought of Greg and the time we spent on the field at UC, and with his young family as well as mine while in college. Tom Selfridge Saratoga NY
February 4, 2012
Greg was great team mate and even a greater person. It saddens my heart that his life ended so tragically.
Gene Miller
Bearcat 1965 to 1969
Bob Bell
February 3, 2012
I'm very sorry to hear of Greg's passing, it was great to have him as a teammate, while at U.C. May the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with the family. Bob Bell U.C. Bearcat from 1967-71
Jim Lukens
February 2, 2012
My high school teammates and I were in awe of Greg. I once saw him stand with his toes on the 40 yard line and, without moving his feet, throw the ball through the goal post at the other end of the field, 70 yards away. We caught Greg’s passes in self-defense, to avoid being knocked down by them, or having the ball go through our chests. He was a man among boys. He was also one of the nicest, kindest, and most likable people you will ever meet. My deepest sympathies to his entire family.
February 2, 2012
Wishing you strength during this difficult time. As a part of the class of 65, I remember Greg's Dad always being on the sidelines. He knew long before we did how great he was!
Sharon Tolliver Greiner
Circleville, Ohio
Steven Booher
February 1, 2012
To the Family
Greg was a classmate and a good friend.
May he rest in peace My condolences.
February 1, 2012
I was so sad to hear of Greg's passing. Greg "Cookie Monster"
was such a sweet, kind, strong and gentle soul. He was a talented artist! I am going to miss seeing Cookie Monster on my trips back to Cincy. I will miss his contagious smile and positive spirit! God bless the Cook Family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sheila Pohlkamp Master, Lexington, Ky
Cathy Rippeth-Cox
February 1, 2012
Chris and Family,
Many fond memories of Greg from the Cozy Inn. He always entertained us when he visited. He was a dear friend and will be sadly missed.
DeAnne Bates Knisley
February 1, 2012
My thoughts, prayers and love to Greg and family at this most difficult time.
John Franklin
February 1, 2012
I will always admire Greg as both an athlete, and the man he became after his athletic career was cut short. He was certainly a person that the Class of 65 will always be proud of. My condolences to friends and family.
Fred Eblin
February 1, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I hope that you can take comfort in knowing that the thoughts of many old friends and classmatets are with you at this time of sorrow. I will always remember my friendship with the Cook family and you will be in my prayers.
Mike Hagley
February 1, 2012
Greg and I played together as children, and I have hundreds of stories about him and good memories of all the years we were friends. I am lucky to have known him so well. My sincere condolences to Robin, Brent, and Chris. Your brother sure had fun, and he impacted the lives of a lot of people.
Carol Gray McCloskey
February 1, 2012
My sympathy goes out to all of Greg's family. We went to high school together and I always admired him. He was a great guy.
1963 Clowning with Al & Checking out the Jr. Class Homecoming Float at the "Car Barn"
Caroline McCoy
February 1, 2012
As Greg's friend since 9th grade, I share that his entire high school class of 1965 deeply grieves his passing and shall forever celebrate his life. Our Facebook and other pages are aflutter with tributes, fond memories, and expressions of sympathy to your family. We all know that there are and were few men like Greg…a true athlete and sportsman with the gentle, sensitive spirit of the fine artist he was. We forever miss his GENUINE gorgeous smile and personality that were directed straight to the hearts of all to whom he generously extended himself to cheer and entertain. He loved Chillicothe and its people. (He liked to tell the story of how he felt bad when early in his career folks got upset over a national TV interview when he innocently joked saying something like “Chillicothe” might sound like a rare disease but isn't!) He was humble, and never felt he deserved the admiration we always have had for him. He did deserve it. He truly did. See you at the Rainbow Bridge, Dear Friend.
Taken in Kansas City when he played for the Chiefs a short while.
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
February 1, 2012
Cincinnati, Ohio
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
February 1, 2012
Greg with Mike Reid
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
February 1, 2012
Greg with Coach Paul Brown
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
February 1, 2012
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
February 1, 2012
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
February 1, 2012
Jill Echenrode
January 31, 2012
To Robin-our hearts go out to you & your families in the loss of your brother. I will always remember Greg's big impact in Chillicothe during high school and after leaving for his season with the Bengals. I know your lives have changed forever. Pls know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Jill & Bob
January 31, 2012
My sincere sympathy to the family. I knew Greg all my life & will miss him. Of course I know he is in a better place & probably playing football (again). R.I.P. DDD
Al Park
January 31, 2012
To the Cook family, You have my sincere condolences on the loss of your brother and father. Greg and I were best friends in high school and even though our later lives took different paths I always cherished the friendship we shared in those formative years of our lives. Al Park
Charley Hall
January 31, 2012
The most impressive thing to me about Greg Cook was the manner in which he moved on from a great football career cut short and how he led a productive life after football. I will always remember the 1969 season and the excitement he brought to the Bengals
January 31, 2012
Greg was my neighbor in the 1980s. We had wonderful deep talks. We had a similar sense of humor. I understood his restlessness. He always showed up at just the right time. I became an admirer of his painting. He often spoke of Brandon, and always with love and pride. I ran into him last year and wish we had spoken longer. There is never enough time or a good time to say good bye, Godspeed. During this time of sadness I pray for healing in all who loved and were loved by Greg. The Rev. Noel Julnes-Dehner
January 31, 2012
greg will be missed. went all through school with him and he was a good friend. rest in peace greg. marsha echard coey (chillicothe, ohio)
Krista Sorrenti (Hartzell)
January 31, 2012
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy for the entire Cook family. I lived next door to Greg's wonderful maternal grandparents (McNulty) in Dayton, Ohio many years ago. I enjoyed seeing Robin when she visited. My heart goes out to you all.
No Name
January 30, 2012
I will always miss you. What a great person to have known. Intelligent, fun, funny, with wisdom. One of a kind. The greatest.
John Jackson
January 30, 2012
To the Cook family: I played against Greg in football and basketball, as many of us did. I graduated also in 1964 from Greeffield McClain High School. He was a tremendous individual and all around good man. We lost touch over the years but I talked of him on many occasions with my family and friends.
I know it is a very sad occasion and an unhappy vigil. May God give you peace in this most difficult time,
A long ago opponent,
John Jackson
Judge Mark Painter
January 30, 2012
These entries reflect what we all know--no one ever had an unkind word about Greg, since he never had an unkind thought about anyone. He was a perfect gentleman, and a long-time friend.
Gail Douglas
January 30, 2012
Greg's family: Please accept my condolences. Your Dad will be missed by so very many people. He was a gentle man and was loved and admired by his classmates from years past. CHS Class of 1965 Gail Freiesleben Douglas
Glenda Jordan
January 30, 2012
My condolences to Brandon, Johnny and the remainder of the family. Greg was a big part of my life for many years. I will always miss his smiles, his talks and his warmth. Find peace, my friend. You will be sorely missed.
Bruce Caplinger
January 29, 2012
Growing up in greg's hometown of Chillicothe, ohio, his name was much talked about. Greg was not only loved here, but far and wide. I called Greg about 8 years ago while he was in a business meeting. I told him I would call him back later so we could talk. He insisted it was okay and we talked about 10 minutes. He was always looking out for others with his radiant personality. Life is so hard on earth and God sends a few angels here just to make us laugh. May you now rejoice in heaven. You will be sadly missed by everyone here in Chillicothe. May God be with all the family that Greg so dearly loved. Chillicothe was so proud of you and will always love you!
Dave Francis
January 29, 2012
To Greg's Family, I was so sorry to hear of his passing. I have known Greg since attending Western Junior High. He was always a great guy. I always enjoyed seeing him anytime he was in town. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family.
Dave Francis
January 29, 2012
To Greg's Family, and I was so sorry to hear of his passing. I have known Greg since attending Western Junior High. He will be was always a great guy. I always enjoyed seeing him anytime he was in town. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family.
rosie carroll/kittrell
January 29, 2012
i was so sorry to hear about greg. i can remember being in art class with him in high school and he was trying to teach me to draw a tree. i knew then he could be an artist. he will be missed.
Ann Stippich
January 29, 2012
I met Greg a few years ago.. and he just about hugged me to Death!!!! I watched many football games with him.. He watching the Bengals and me watching the Packers. He taught me football.... Even tried to convince me that ladies in bikini's would run on the field and remove the yellow lines that reflected 1st downs....I will never forget him saying... Aren't You something and his cheese cakes and cookies. He was one of a kind and I will miss him. Greg Cookie Cook you were SOMETHING.
Bobby Hundley
January 29, 2012
Im very sorry to hear of his passing. He was a fine person.
Paul Bernheimer
January 29, 2012
I was thinking about Greg the other day. I am a UC-DAAP grad and enjoyed running into him around town. He was always the perfect gentleman and glad to see me although we hardly knew each other. I was always impressed that someone with such talent and charisma remembered me and was so genuine and kind. My sincerest sympathies to his family.
Dave Thomas
January 29, 2012
I am so sorry to hear this sad news. Greg was a supremely gifted athlete and a natural-born leader. Great personal charm and charisma. Brent, my deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your brother Chris and the rest of the Cook family.
Frank Abate
January 29, 2012
My sincere condolences to Greg's family. He was an extraordinary athlete, but more importantly he made everyone around him smile and laugh. That is a very special gift, given only to a few. I met him in Fall 2006, and he instantly became a highlight in my life. He will long be remembered with fondness and with joy.
Garry Tolliver
January 29, 2012
From the time as kids catching crawdads in Honey Creek behind his home on Allen St. in Chillicothe to the time I got my nose broke in a fight Greg sat with me on the crub in front of my home laughing at my crooked nose trying to figure out what to tell my Dad when he came home.Sure will miss you good friend. Your Buddy, Garry Tolliver
BILL MINK
January 29, 2012
WE LOVE YOU MAN
Liz Lott
January 29, 2012
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Tim Cartwright
January 28, 2012
To Chris,Brent,Robin and his kids. Greg was a super guy ! I remember times when I had him throw a football and I caught it.His throw and arm was so smooth and direct and accurate when I caught the football even moved my body. Many times it would almost bounce out of my arms and hands and I would put it back into my arms.Greg had a very powerful and awesome throw.I remember him at Chillicothe High School. Greg was very positive and a great sport in athletics and dealing with situations in his game.We will miss him greatly he had a super up beat personality with so much purpose. My thoughts are with you during this time. Tim Cartwright
January 28, 2012
To the most fascinating man I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. God love you. Hank Hetz
Nancy Kisler Anderson
January 28, 2012
Growing up in Chillicothe I remember watching him play at Herenstein Field. He make all of us proud to be from Chilli. To the entire Cook family I send my deepest symapathy...God Bless You all.
Gale H
January 28, 2012
Greg was a all time quarter back for the Bengals. May he rest in peace.
Gale Cincinnati
Betsy
January 28, 2012
I will miss seeing Greg's beautiful smile radiating through the streets of downtown! I miss you buddy!! Cincinnati will never be the same without you!
Kim Alexander
January 28, 2012
Brent, Robin, Chris & family, my deepest condolences. My father was principal at Western Jr High and I watched Greg play sports from his days there through his all-too-brief time in the NFL. I was always in awe of him, as a fan and even more so when I got to know him later. RIP, Greg.
Bengal Greg Cook
January 28, 2012
Greg at his induction into the Hamilton County Hall of Fame
January 28, 2012
To one of the sweetest persons I ever knew, God bless.
Lee Sabatelli
January 28, 2012
He would light up any room he entered and will be remembered as THE best Cincinnati Quarterback...he made the best cheesecake on earth. He will be missed. Rosie Taulbee
January 28, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss.
Laurel Helber
January 28, 2012
Brent, Robin and Chris. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire famiy at this sad moment. Growing up in Chillicothe, Greg Cook was always a name that never left my mind. The Connery and Cook family had association with each other in some manner over the years while we attended school. Greg was always a quarterback of the Bengals my heart and will always be remembered as putting Chillicothe on the map with important historical sports figures. Thank you for that. God Bless You All,
Very Sincerely, Laurel Connery Helber & Family
January 28, 2012
To the Cook Family We wish to express our condolences to you. We had the opportuity to meet Greg two years ago and were so impressed by his caring, unpretentious, engaging personality. Our conversations and memories of him will last a lifetime He truly seemed to be a friend to all he met. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Donna & Charles
Wimmers (Dayton, OH)
Linda Loschiavo Makofski
January 28, 2012
Brent, Robin, Chris, Brandon and John, I'm so sorry for your loss. It's been over 34 years, but I still remember how much he loved you. My prayers go out to you.
Dan Michel
January 28, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Don Weaks
January 28, 2012
Greg's friendship was a gift to everyone who knew him, I was fortunate enough to have been one of his friend for more than 40 years. It is hard to say good-bye my friend.
Jim O'Brien
January 28, 2012
"For when the One Great Scorer comes To write against your name, He marks - not that you won or lost - But how you played the game." Greg, you played the game better than anyone!
Rest in Peace my friend.
Nan Artrup McGuire
January 28, 2012
To the entire Cook family: My thoughts are with all of you in the loss of your gifted, loving brother and father, Greg. I send love and prayers to all of you.
Kathy and Leo Di Francesco
January 28, 2012
Chris, to you and your entire family we are sending you our love and hope that the wonderful good memories of Greg will help you get through this difficult time. We never got to meet him personally but feel that we knew him from just knowing you. He is at peace now. Love and condolences to you and your family.
Kathy and Leo
Donna Jackson
January 28, 2012
The greatest quarterback I have ever watched both college and pro. He will be sorely missed. God go with you Greg Cook.
Lea Nolan
January 28, 2012
Greg, Your smiles, handshakes and most of all your hugs will be sorely missed. Downtown just won't be as friendly without you. Godspeed my friend.
Connie (Givens) Cook
January 28, 2012
I had met Greg in Busken's several years ago and told him what a fan I was since I am also from Chillicothe area. I found him to be warm. positive and approachable. My thoughts and prayers are with his entire family. -
Esa DeLuca-Stewart
January 28, 2012
Our condolences to the entire Cook family from everyone at Sorrento's Pizza in Norwood. Your name will always remain on our menu. We will miss your big smile and the wonderful cheescakes that you shared with us and Willie. From the entire DeLuca family especially Mama DeLuca and Esa God Bless you and your family.
Tom Allen
January 28, 2012
I was so sorry to hear about Greg. He an I went all through school together. We could make each other laugh just by looking at each other. I played end in jr high and Greg was QB. He could hardly throw the ball. But by his junior year in HS his arm was like a cannon. He was the best and would have been the greatest in the NFL had he not been injured. My prayers are with the family and I will always remember him as a dear friend who was taken from us too soon.
Donald Ocke
January 28, 2012
Greg was not only a great QB but had other talents as well, but most of all , simply a good guy. We will all miss you.
Ruth Ann Pinkerton(Brown)
January 28, 2012
One of many who grew up with Greg in Chillicothe Ohio, will never forget the smile that he always had whenever you saw him. With all of his achievements, he was still a man that God loved and so did we. To the family hold on to the memories and may you find strength from God to get through these hard times, but always remember he loved you. The Brown Family from Chillicoth Ohio.
John Parker
January 28, 2012
Greg was a great friend and team mate this was way to soom but he will always be remembered my condolence to Brent and the rest of the family
January 28, 2012
rest in peace my friend, just seeing you not long ago, and thought of you when i had not seen you for a while in downtown.god bless you you ,were truly a very nice person. i will miss our football chats very much john mc arthur cincinnati ohio
David J. Rundels
January 28, 2012
Greg will always be my quarterback as he was back then. My condolences to the family may Greg rest in peace.
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