Richard Cook Obituary, Portsmouth High School Class Of 1972 Member Has Died

Richard Cook Obituary, Death – The life of Richard H. Cook, 68, of Tilton, New Hampshire, ended on December 14, 2022, at Concord Hospital in Concord, New Hampshire. Richard, better known as “Cookie” and “Cookieman,” was born on March 14, 1954, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to the late Weston F. Cook Sr. and Ruth P. Cook. He is survived by his wife and companion, Karen Johnson, also of Tilton, New Hampshire. Kevin Cook of Houston, Texas, Sarah Cook and her children (his grandchildren) Laila, Miriam, Hannah, Paisley, and Krew of Florida, and Valerie Cook of Seattle, Washington are among the people he leaves behind.

In addition, Richard said his goodbyes to his beloved dog, Parker, and cat, Wynton, as well as his brother and best friend, Weston F. Cook, Jr., and Weston’s wife, Barbara J. Cook, all of Rye, New Hampshire, and their children, Paul, Ruth, and Eleanor (Cat). Richard spent his childhood in Rye, New Hampshire, exploring the woods, bogs, and fields of the nearby “Moodyville” neighborhood. When he was younger, his interests were animals, trucks, his classmates, and the nearby beaches. As time went on, Cookie committed himself fully to the Rye Boy Scouts. He was quite proud of his accomplishment of becoming an Eagle Scout, and he often reflected on his time spent in the organization with affection.

During his time in school, he developed a serious interest in the sport of basketball. His lifeguarding career spanned several years at coastal State parks. There is a special place in his heart for his fellow 1972 Portsmouth Senior High School graduates. After high school he enrolled at the University of New Hampshire, where he studied Environmental Microbiology and Chemistry as an undergrad.