Catherine Cook

Catherine Cook 96 of Sugarloaf, Pa formerly of Albrightsville, PA passed away peacefully with her granddaughter at her side on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Mountain Top Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Mountain Top, PA.

Catherine was born in Newark, NJ on September 24, 1929, daughter of the late Michael and Sophie (Pisacreta) Renga.

She was the loving wife of the late Loren Eugene Cook who preceded her in death on September 29, 1996.

Catherine was a former member of Cornerstone Community Church in Kresgeville, PA and attended Faith United Church of Christ in Hazleton, PA and Brainerd Church in Sugarloaf, PA.

Catherine had worked in the office performing clerical work for Gerber Plumbing in Woodbridge, NJ for many years, retiring in 1985. She also worked for Pocono TV Times and in her younger days she did clerical for Prudential Insurance New Jersey and Red Raven Rubber Band Company in New Jersey

She was a member of the Business and Professional Women's Club in New Jersey and served as their president in 1984. A member of the Carbon County Senior Center in Carbon County, PA. She was also a member of RSVP of Lehigh, Northampton and Carbon Counties receiving the Presidents Volunteer Service Award.

Catherine was the kind of woman whose presence could light up a room - warm, generous and endlessly loving. She was truly devoted to volunteering wherever she was needed. She found wonder in the world around her and joy in everyday, living life to its fullest. She won the Senior Olympian Gold and Silver in the 80+ category. She loved the outdoors and skied until she was 70 years young. She loved roller skating, water skiing, camping and relaxing with her word search books. She enjoyed selling Sarah Coventry Jewelry and Best Line products.

We have been truly blessed with Catherine's presence in our lives. She will be deeply missed by her daughter: Carol Ann Freeman of Laurel, DE, her granddaughter who was inspired by her love and perseverance in life: Carol Lee Vitro and spouse Victor of Hazle Twp, PA, son: Eugene L. Cook and spouse Judy of Clayton, NC and their children and grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and extended family.

In addition to her husband Loren Eugene Cook, she was preceded in death by her 1st husband: William Whaley, daughters: Denise Whaley, and Rose Ann Dearing, son-in-law: Henry Freeman and a brother Salvatore Renga and his spouse Beatrice.

A Memorial service will be held 2 PM, Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Brainerd Church, Main Street, Sugarloaf, PA with Pastor Lynn Wallace officiating.

Catherine will be laid to rest next to her loving husband Loren Eugene at the Buena Vista Cemetery, Brodheadsville, PA.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made In Loving Memory of Catherine Cook to: Brandon's Forever Home, 187 North Church Street, Hazleton, PA 18201.

Gower Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 1426 Route 209, Gilbert, PA is entrusted with her arrangements.

www.gowerfuneralhome.com