Ronald G Cook

With deep love and solemn pride, we announce the passing of Ronald Gerard "Cookie" Cook, longtime resident of Venice, Florida, who died peacefully on August 15, 2025, in Sarasota, at the age of 85. Born on July 7, 1940, in Saco, Maine, Ron lived a life marked by craftsmanship, devotion to family, and a quiet strength that shaped every community he touched. He passed surrounded by the family and legacy he built with grit and grace.

Ron touched countless lives as a devoted father, loving husband, proud grandfather, loyal uncle and cousin, and a true friend to all who knew him. He is survived by his cherished wife, Margaret Cook; daughters Mollie Hobbs (Dale), Missi Bart (John), and Shelly Bell; and grandson Luke Cook-Griffin, whose presence brought him endless joy. He also leaves behind his brother Roger Cook (Linda); sisters Jackie Scott (Jim) and Shirley Brown; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family who will remember him with love and gratitude.

He was predeceased by his parents, Raymond and Marie (Goupil); his sister Claire Lafferty (Jim); and sister Sharon Osterhout.

A master cabinet maker by trade and by heart, Ron's journey in woodworking began with passion and precision. In 1969, he founded Cook's Custom Cabinetry, a business that would become synonymous with quality and integrity. A decade later, in partnership with his beloved wife Margaret, the business expanded to become a Wood-Mode/Brookhaven dealership. Together they established a dedicated showroom and warehouse, transforming Cook's Custom Cabinetry from a humble workshop into a trusted destination for fine design and expert craftsmanship. Their work left an indelible mark across Sarasota, Naples, and beyond with each project a testament to Ron's meticulous eye and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Ron was more than a craftsman; he was a builder of relationships. Clients became friends, and each kitchen or bath he crafted carried not just wood and polish but warmth and care. His legacy lives on not only in the homes he helped shape but also in the hearts of those who had the privilege of working with him.

His devotion extended beyond the workbench. Ron served his country honorably in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1962. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and a man of Catholic faith, whose quiet integrity guided every aspect of his life.

Ron was a man of many passions: classic cars that gleamed under the Florida sun; fishing trips that brought peace and stories; football Sundays filled with cheers; Clint Eastwood and John Wayne films that echoed his own stoic charm; and the loyal companionship of good dogs and spoiled cats. He was known for his legendary laugh, quick wit, and playful pranks, traits that endeared him to neighbors and friends alike.

Ron's memory will be honored not only through the enduring beauty of the spaces he created, but through the values he lived by: honesty, generosity, humor, and respect for all. His absence will be deeply felt, but his example remains a guiding light.

May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him, and may the sound of sawdust settling always remind us of a life well spent.

Services

A Mass in celebration of Ron's life will be held on Thursday, September 25th at 9:30 AM at the Chapel of Incarnation Catholic Church, with refreshments to follow. All are welcome. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed at www.incarnationchurch.org. A military burial with inurnment will take place at 1:30 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery.

In Lieu of Flowers, please honor Ron's spirit by practicing a random act of kindness. For those who feel moved to make a donation, we invite you to support one of the causes close to his heart:

- Disabled American Veterans (DAV) - www.dav.org

- Humane Society of Sarasota County - Local No-Kill Animal Shelter

Ron believed in service, loyalty, and compassion....these organizations reflect the life he lived.