Richard J. Cook

Richard J. Cook

Age 77, of Penn Yan, NY, passed away May 6, 2024.

Richard was born in Wilkes-Barre, PA on May 18, 1946, the son of John and Leona (Baran) Cook.  After serving in the United States Navy, he returned home where he met the love of his life, Sandy.  They were married June 29, 1974 and spent 5 decades with one another. 

Together they raised three sons, Jonathan Cook of Penn Yan, Brandon Cook of Jackson, NJ, and Justin Cook, who preceded him in death.  He is also survived by brothers-in-law, Robert (Mary Ann) White, and Edward (Teri) White, and sister-in-law, Debbie (Dave) LaCross, all of New Jersey.

Richard was a retired US Postal Carrier in Manalapan, NJ.  After his retirement, he and Sandy moved to Penn Yan to build their dream home, overlooking the beautiful Keuka Lake.  When Richard wasn’t “showing them how to bowl” at Sunset Bowl he was out on the lake fishing.  Affectionately known as the “Mower Man”, he could be seen endlessly caring for his yard on his riding mower while rocking out to the Blues or good ole fashioned Rock & Roll.  More than that, his love for music extended to playing the accordion by ear.  Consider yourself lucky if you were on the receiving end of one of his spontaneous accordion serenades!

His community ties were strong as a member of the Seneca Lake Duck Hunters Club and an active participant at Penn Yan United Methodist Church.

A Memorial Service with concluding military honors will be held at the Penn Yan United Methodist Church on Saturday, May 18 at 2:00pm.  A reception will be held at the church. 

Condolences may be left at his obituary at  www.WeldonFuneralHome.com.   Arrangements with Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.

Memorial donations in his memory may be made to Keuka Comfort Care, PO Box 107, Penn Yan, NY 14527.

Richard will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched with his kindness, sense of humor, and unconditional love. May he rest in peace knowing that he brought joy to many hearts during his time here on Earth.