John William Cook

Forever Missed.

John William Cook, lovingly known as Jack and “Daddy Jack,” passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, at 12:25 a.m. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and the love he shared so generously with his family and friends.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Patty (Varney) Cook of Fort Pierce, FL; daughter, Randi Cook of Fort Pierce, FL; son, Rick Cook of Fort Pierce, FL; eldest son, JD Cook, and daughter-in-law, Kara Nelson Cook of Port St. Lucie, FL; and stepdaughter, Michelle Ledbetter Paget of Hastings, MI. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Phyllis Freese of Hastings, MI, and his brother, Robert Cook of White City, FL.

Jack was blessed with five grandchildren: Travis and Tonyia (Megan) of Wisconsin, DJ of Port St. Lucie, and Autumn and Angelina of Hastings, MI. He also leaves behind three great-grandchildren, Nathan, Alicyia, and Leona, all of Wisconsin. He is further survived by his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Carl & Rhonda Woodard, Pat & Carol Lewis, Debbie Seeber, Steve Varney, and Scott Varney, all of Michigan, along with many nieces and nephews who adored him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard (Dick) Cook; mother, Marie “Mommom” Elder Cook; brother, Richard (Dick) Cook; sister-in-law, Lizbeth Cook; brother-in-law, Doug Seeber; in-laws, Lyle & Norma Varney and Robert Freese; sister-in-law, Barbara Woodard; and his lifelong best friend, Jimmy Waiter.

Born and raised in Trenton, NJ, Jack proudly served his country during the Vietnam era before moving to Florida in 1972, where he spent the rest of his life. A highly skilled trim carpenter, Jack could build just about anything — and often did. When he wasn’t working with his hands, he could be found fishing, boating, or cruising in his prized 1923 Ford T-Bucket with his beloved wife by his side. Jack had a special love for his dogs — Cookie, Buddy, and most recently, Little Louie, who remains faithfully by Patty’s side until they are reunited.

To his children, Jack was the best “Daddy Jack” they could have ever asked for. To the neighborhood kids, he was the fun, loving dad who always made them feel welcome. His warmth, laughter, and gentle spirit touched the lives of so many, and his legacy of love will carry on through all who knew him.

Jack will be missed deeply and loved always and forever.