Franklin Lawrence Cook

1945 - 2025

Franklin Lawrence Cook

August 6, 1945 - June 12, 2025

Sacramento, California - Franklin Lawrence "Frank" Cook, 79, of Sacramento, California, passed away peacefully at his Curtis Park home on June 12, 2025. He was born on August 6, 1945, to Matthew Cook and Leora Cazadd Cook, the youngest of three sons.

After graduating from Sacramento High School, he served in the U.S. Army as a drill sergeant before earning both his Bachelor's degree and a Master of Social Work from California State University, Sacramento. His deep commitment to service and community was evident early onin his mid-twenties, he ran for Sacramento City Council against long-time incumbent Burnett Miller. Although unsuccessful, he soon channeled that same drive into real estate, co-founding Cook Realty with his wife, Barbara, in 1974. Together, they built a thriving, independently owned brokerage that, for over 50 years, has helped thousands of Sacramentans achieve the dream of homeownership.

Larger than life yet grounded and humble, Frank was known for his generosity, humor, and enduring spirit. He played a pivotal role in saving the historic Sierra School in Curtis Park from demolition, helping to transform it into the Sierra 2 Center, an active community hub. He also organized the Toys for the Troops' Kids holiday toy drive and was an active member of the Rotary Club. An adventurer at heart, he loved fishing, scuba diving, hiking, and cycling.

Perhaps his most profound impact was on the lives of those in recovery. A grateful and proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous for over 43 years, he offered guidance, hope, and unwavering support to countless individuals seeking sobriety. He also served as president of the Board of Directors of the Sacramento Recovery House.

To many, he brought a comforting, steady "dad energy", offering presence, wisdom, and a deep belief in people's capacity for change. With his Irish eyes and piercing insight, he had a remarkable gift for seeing and nurturing the potential in others. Even in his final years, as he lived with Alzheimer's, his warmth could still be felt in his smile, his embrace, and the way he rose to greet you. While the grief is profound, there is also peace in knowing that his legacy of compassion and community lives on in all those he touched.

Predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Barbara Hays Cook, Frank is survived by four children: Stevie Cook (Jeon), Lindsay Filby (Scott), Trey Bonetti (Luz), and Kristin Faust, and seven grandchildren: Beryl and Hedwig, Caitlin (Ryan) and Jack, Sierra and Brooke, and Sojourner. Grateful appreciation to his caregivers since 2022 Davita, Kono, Loraine, Nash, Richard, and Terri. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 12 at 11am, at Nauman & Sons, with a repast to follow at Sierra 2. Remembrances may be made to the Sacramento Recovery House.