Robert E. Cook Sr.

Robert E. Cook Sr. age 82 of Deemston Borough passed away peacefully with his family by his side on September 29, 2017.

Born on June 13, 1935, in Arona, Penn., Robert was the son of the late John and Margaret Godetz Cook and the cherished grandson of the late Margaret and Joseph Godetz. 

Robert attended Cokeburg and Deemston grade schools, and was a 1953 graduate of Centerville High School.  In his youth, he frequented Richeyville Skating Rink, where he met “the love of [his] life,” Priscilla (Vihlidal) Cook, at the age of 17. They were married on December 4, 1954, and enjoyed 62 years of love and companionship.  The first 25 years of their married life were spent as residents of Cokeburg before moving to his family’s farm in Deemston. 

He was the loving father of Robert E. (Diana) Cook Jr., Barbara (Edward) Urcho, and Margie (James) Beecham; adored grandfather of Robert J. (Donna) Cook, Jennifer L. Urcho, Michael E. (Crystal) Cook, Christine N. (Joseph) Gorby, Kimberly J. (Christopher) Price, James C. Beecham Jr., Emily M. Beecham, and Jacob J. Beecham; cherished great grandfather of Bryce M. Crowson, Briella R. Gorby, Alaina J. Gorby, and Cayde M. Cook; step grandfather of Tyler, Kayla, Nathan, and Olivia Kaminski; dear brother of Harold E. “Buddy” Rodabaugh and the late Donna L. Rodabaugh Packrall; also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Robert was employed at Brockway Glass Plant No. 7 for 31 years before the plant’s closing. He then began work at Bethlehem Center School District in 1986, where his days were brightened by the joy of treating his grandchildren to ice cream in the cafeteria. He retired in 2006.

An avid outdoorsman, Robert loved trapping and hunting on the family farm. He especially treasured the time he spent fishing and farming with his son and grandsons, gardening and antiquing with his wife and daughters, and golfing with friends. No matter the activity, his brightest days were those spent with family: berry picking with his granddaughters, harvesting fruit from the orchard for Priscilla’s homemade pies, picnicking at his daughter’s home, and later in life, watching his great grandchildren grow and play.

On any given morning, Robert and his family could be found visiting the Chuck Wagon or Carlton diners for breakfast, where he would enjoy “crispy” bacon and endless cups of coffee with cream. He also frequented the Carmichaels Senior Citizen’s Center, spending hours playing bingo and talking with friends about his family, expressing pride for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. When at home, he and Priscilla spent quality time on their porch swing, where his faithful cat, Patches, was always within arm’s reach. Robert looked forward to attending service at Highland Brethren Church on Sundays. His friends at the Church cherished his warm hugs and pocket full of Dad’s Root Beer Barrel candies. 

Robert will be remembered as a quiet and honest man with a handsome smile and unconditional love for his wife, family, and friends.  His loyalty and gentle disposition will live on in our hearts and cherished memories. 

Family and friends will gather at the Cook Family Farm in Deemston on Sunday, October 15, at 1 PM, for a brief memorial ceremony and celebration of Robert’s life. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to Highland Brethren Church: 450 Highland Ridge Rd. Marianna, PA 15345.

Please view and sign the family’s online guestbook at www.cremationfuneralcare.com