It is with deep sadness and enormous respect that we announce the passing of Richard T. Cook, Sr., affectionately known to many as Dick, on February 7, 2025. Born on February 25, 1945, in Boston, MA, Richard's life was a rich tapestry of unforgettable moments and achievements. He was a man of many passions, from his love for motorcycles and restoring old cars to racing, and spending time at The Station. In his younger years, Richard and his horse were inseparable, creating memories that would last a lifetime. A proud Boston native, Richard had the opportunity to live in Clinton, Marlborough, and Arizona before settling in Phillipston, Massachusetts.
Richard was a man of the road, literally and figuratively. His career as a self-employed truck driver allowed him to travel millions of miles, earning him the fond moniker, 'The People's Grandpa.' His indomitable spirit, warm personality, and unyielding dedication to his profession made him a cherished figure within and beyond the trucking community. Although he drove countless miles, his favorite destination was always home, where he reveled in the joy of family. Time spent with loved ones was his most cherished hobby, a testament to his enduring devotion to his family.
Richard leaves behind an enduring legacy of love and resilience. He is survived by his children Diana Graham, Brenda Hawkins and her husband Brent, Richard Jr and his wife Lisa, and Tammy Hale and her husband Thomas. His memory is preceded in death by his parents Albert and Almeda Cook, his daughter Robin Milligan, his son Richard Cook, and his beloved wife Diana Cook. Richard's life was a testament to the power of resilience, the joy of adventure, and the depth of family bonds. His legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
The family invites you to join them for a visitation on Saturday, February 15th, 2025, at 9:30 am at the Mack Family Funeral Homes- Gardner Chapel, 105 Central Street, Gardner, Massachusetts, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. Richard will be laid to rest at Pine Grove Cemetery in Templeton, Massachusetts, at 12:00pm. Mack Family Funeral Homes Gardner - Chapel, 105 Central Street, Gardner, Kevin J. Mack & Walter C. Taylor, Directors, are handling the arrangements.
We kindly encourage friends and family to pay tribute to Richard by leaving memories and uploading photos to the memorial page, celebrating his journey and the remarkable life he led.
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Starts at 9:30 am (Eastern time)
Mack Family Funeral Homes - Gardner Chapel
Saturday, February 15, 2025
11:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
Mack Family Funeral Homes - Gardner Chapel
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Starts at 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
Pine Grove Cemetery
Visits: 287
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors