Gerard "Gerry" McCook

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gerard (Gerry) McCook (65), of Shrewsbury, Mass., and formerly of Marlborough, on August 13th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He transitioned with the comfort of his loving family by his side.

Born on July 22, 1960, in Brighton, MA, he was the beloved son of the late James McCook and Mary McCook. The second youngest of thirteen children, he grew up in a lively, close-knit family, learning early the importance of loyalty, humor, and looking out for others. He was predeceased by his parents and his sibling Bernadette.

For 43 years, he shared his life with his beloved wife, Maureen McCook. Together, they raised three children and built a life filled with love, laughter, and tradition. Becoming "Papa" to five grandchildren was one of his greatest joys, whether it was picking vegetables in his garden or teaching the grandkids how to fish, just as he had done with his own children, he cherished every opportunity to pass on lessons from the water and from life.

Gerard was a loving man, equally loved by all who knew him. His greatest aspiration in life was to make sure his family and friends were cared for, and all who knew him would agree he fulfilled that goal. Trips to Florida, summers at Scarpa Villa in New Hampshire, and more recently trips to Cape Cod became treasured times of teaching, storytelling, and memory-making. His beach homes were always open to others, where he enjoyed playing tour guide and exploring coastal towns with family and friends. Forever cherished will be the memories of his and Maureen's 40th wedding anniversary trip to Ireland, touring the beautiful countryside, cliffs and castles and enjoying Irish traditions and culture.

Fishing, hockey, scuba diving, ice fishing, running, and gardening all brought him joy, and he especially loved cooking for others, whether making breakfast for his kids and grandkids, grilling for his coworkers, or whipping up Nana's meatballs for family gatherings. A loyal Red Sox fan, he found happiness in both life's simple pleasures and its' grand adventures.

In his younger years he was boldly independent, some would even say rebellious, and though that fire softened with time, it was never extinguished, tempered instead by wisdom, generosity, and deep care for those around him. He was a true leader, a protector, a man you could count on, who showed undeniable integrity and courage, even up until his last breath. He made the people he loved feel special, and lived authentically and admirably true to himself.

Gerard was full of heart and full of spirit. He was hardworking, never shying away from effort or responsibility. When he wasn't working, he was lending a hand to friends and family. He was loving, not just in words, but in the way he showed up for those that needed him. He had a sense of humor-always quick with a joke, a playful nudge, or with a story told just right.

Gerard is survived by his devoted wife, who was the love of his life for 43 years, Maureen (Finan) McCook, his three children: Casey McCook, Ryan McCook, and Teryn McCook, along with his five grandchildren: Maddox, Milah, Nico, Lola, and Rowan. He is also survived by 3 sisters and 8 brothers and their spouses: Hibiscus Rose, John McCook, Bill and his wife, Martha McCook, Jim McCook, Joe McCook, Nella McCook, Dan & his wife Patty McCook, Kathy and her husband, Frank Scarpa, Tony and his wife, Sue McCook, Chris & his wife Terry McCook, Tom & his wife, Karen DeMoore. He will also be remembered by many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Gerard will be forever remembered not only as a husband, father, and Papa, but also as a loyal brother, uncle, and friend. His good buddies, Joe Rego and Mike Schreiner were like brothers to him, and more recently he formed an unbreakable bond with his "war" buddies, Craig and Chris as they fought cancer side by side.

Beloved husband, father, Papa, brother, uncle, and friend, his deep love for his family and friends leaves a legacy for all who knew him. He leaves behind a lasting mark, remembered with deep admiration and gratitude, cherished with love, and carried on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Gerard's life during visitation hours, Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 4-7 PM in the Short and Rowe Funeral Home, 95 West Main Street, Marlborough, MA., 01752.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 11:00 in the First Congregational Church, 19 Church Road, Shrewsbury, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in honor of Gerry's generous spirit at 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html