Monte Gene Cook

March 14, 1945 – September 29, 2025

Monte Gene Cook, 80, passed away peacefully at his home in Portland, Oregon, on September 29, 2025, surrounded by family.

Monte was born on March 14, 1945, to Ralph and Virginia Cook in Medford, Oregon. He spent his early years working hard and playing hard—a theme that continued throughout his life. His father was a rancher, pear farmer, and business entrepreneur, and Monte, along with his mother and sisters, played a vital role in supporting the family’s ventures. In his downtime, he was often off having fun and getting into mischief with his friends and cousins.

In 1968, Monte earned a degree in architecture from the University of Oregon. After graduation, he settled in Portland to start a family and a business, co-founding Miller Cook Architects. Architecture wasn’t just his job—it was his passion. He was a creative force, not only in design but also as a skilled woodworker. He built everything from custom furniture to unique art pieces and even helped his kids dominate their Boy Scout pinewood derby.

Monte was known for his generosity and dedication to the community. Among his many contributions two stand out. First Monte facilitated 9 local architects and their chosen contractors to design and build play structures for auction supporting a local child development center. The second, Monte played a key role in the implementation of the Oregon Korean War Veterans Memorial at Willamette National Cemetery.

An avid sailor, Monte always had some type of boat. From small boats to liveaboards, being on the water was his happy place. He shared his love for sailing with his family, spending countless hours on the Columbia River, exploring the San Juan Islands, and camping by lakes. Prior to retirement Monte and his life partner and future wife Barb Turpen sailed the Gulf Islands and circumnavigated Vancouver Island. In retirement, they set off on new adventures with their trusty mate Taz the cat, sailing south and eventually making Mexico their home before eventually returning to Portland.

Monte was also a passionate sports fan, faithfully cheering on the Portland Trail Blazers, Oregon Ducks, and especially the Portland Timbers. He coached his son’s soccer teams and is fondly remembered as a great coach and mentor.

He was always up for a good time and had an infectious sense of humor. With a story for every occasion and a knack for making people laugh, Monte made a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Monte is survived by his wife, Barb; children Brian Cook (and his wife Shauna), Craig Cook (and his wife Cara), and Christy Webster (and her husband Jeff); their mother, Donna Cook; stepdaughter Natalie Deleuze (and her husband Brett) and grandchildren, Ella, Lauren, Brandon, Ciera, and Milo.

He will be deeply missed for his optimism, humor, and love of life. Monte often said during stormy times at sea—a sentiment that applies just as well to life — “The port’s entry always becomes clearer as we get closer to the harbor.”

A celebration of life will be held to honor Monte at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Oregon Humane Society, Oregon Public Broadcasting, or the Cook Inlet Soccer Club.