John Francis Cook

It is with heavy hearts, that we announce the passing of John Francis Cook, 67, of Black River. A devoted husband, cherished father, proud grandfather, and truly a great man, who left us peacefully surrounded by his wife and daughters on August 5th, 2025.

John was born on December 14th, 1957 in Watertown, NY, son of the late John and Mary O'Brien Cook. He graduated from Gouverneur High School and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Clarkson University in 1983. He obtained his Professional Engineer license in August of 1987. John retired as Director of Operations in Region 7 with the NYS Department of Transportation after 35 years of service.

John was the heart of our family - steady, strong, and full of love. He gave everything he had to the people he loved, especially his children, whom he adored with every ounce of his being. He lived for his family, and there was never a day they didn't feel the depth of his care, his wisdom, and unwavering presence. He had a heart of gold and was the kind of man who could fix anything - always willing to lend a hand and was a true jack-of-all-trades. He found joy in hunting, fishing, and traveling, sharing many adventures with his wife, Cindy, including memorable cruises and vacations to Vistana resort in Orlando. He loved outdoor excursions, from hunting in Newfoundland to fishing trips in Ontario, Canada. Out of all of the beautiful places he had traveled, nothing quite compared to Little Kildare, a place that brought him joy and happiness, a place we gathered as a family and where the memory of him will be felt with every visit back to our special place. At home, John was happiest working on projects, searching for treasures on eBay, or sharing laughs and stories with family and friends. John was a member of the Watertown Elks and Rotary Clubs, Hooker Brook Hunting Club, and Little Kildare, Inc.

A hard worker in every sense, John built a life rooted in determination and perseverance. He approached every job, big or small, with dedication and pride, never shying away from a challenge. His intelligence was quiet but undeniable- he was the one we all turned to for advice, for help, or simply the calm reassurance of his voice.

He loved deeply and lived humbly. His sense of humor, his quiet strength, and the way he made everyone feel will never be forgotten.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Cindy, his two children, Elizabeth "Biz" Hayden (Matthew) of Watertown and Christine (Thomas) Grimm of Baldwinsville; his treasured grandchildren, Reagan and Hudson Hayden and Isabelle, Jack, and Leo Grimm who brought him joy every day. He is survived by his beloved golden retriever "grand-pups" - Jeter, Sully, and Murphy whose tails were always wagging whenever he was around. He leaves behind his siblings - Martha Cook Howard of Vancouver, WA; Lisa Barry of Vero Beach, FL; Joseph Cook of Danbury, CT; Julie(Vernon) Wainwright of Gouverneur, NY; Peter(Barb) Cook, Frank (Nicole Shippee) Cook, and Andrew(Katrina) Cook, all of Hailesboro, NY. He is also survived by his father- in- law, William Milton of Watertown NY; sister- in- laws, Karen(JD) Wilson of Bellbrook, OH; Janice VanNess of Pulaski, NY; and Wendy(Dennis) Peters of Ogden, UT and numerous cherished nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, John and Mary Cook, his mother in law, Barbara Milton, and an infant daughter, Amanda Phyllis Cook, in 1991.

Though his absence leaves a hole in our hearts, we are grateful for the time we had, the lessons he taught, and the love that he gave so freely.

We hope you rest easy. You were everything we could have hoped for - and more.

Calling Hours will be held on Sunday, August 10th, from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Bruce Funeral Home in Black River. A funeral service will take place Monday, August 11th, at 11 am at the funeral home, with burial at the convenience of the family in Black River Cemetery.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to the Transplant House of Cleveland 2029 E 115th St, Cleveland, OH 44106.

Arrangements are entrusted to Bruce Funeral Home, Black River.

Online condolences may be shared at www.brucefh.com.