Thomas Martin Cook

1951 - 2025

Thomas Martin “Tom” Cook, 74, of Bowie, Maryland, passed away on October 19, 2025, in Annapolis. A devoted public servant, veteran, and family man, Tom lived a life marked by dedication, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose.

Born on June 21, 1951, in Bethesda, Maryland, Tom was raised in Takoma Park. He was a member of a devout Catholic family that instilled in him the values of faith and stewardship—principles that guided him throughout his life. He attended Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C., where he began to develop the discipline and commitment that would define his career. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from West Virginia University.

Tom served his country as a Vietnam-era veteran of the United States Air Force. Stationed in New Mexico and later in Thailand during the final years of the Vietnam War, he contributed to national defense with quiet resolve and honor.

Following his military service, Tom embarked on a distinguished career with the Amtrak Police Department. Over the course of several decades until his retirement in 2013, he became known for his professionalism and unwavering commitment to public safety. He was an integral member of Amtrak’s original narcotics team and worked closely with the D.C. police on numerous operations. His work led to significant legal milestones, including serving as the arresting officer in the benchmark case United States of America v. Leo J. Tavolacci (1990).

Tom’s excellence did not go unrecognized; he received commendations from both the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia and the Chief of Police for the District of Columbia. After September 11th, he was appointed as Amtrak’s representative on the National Joint Terrorism Task Force—a role that underscored his expertise and trustworthiness at a critical time for national security.

One of Tom’s most cherished partnerships during his law enforcement career was with Brissels, a wire-haired pointer trained as a sniffing dog. Together they traveled extensively to competitions across the country and earned numerous awards for their teamwork and skill.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom found joy in many aspects of life. He and his wife, Carol, met in the tech booth at Silver Spring Stage where they both volunteered on productions in the 1980s and -90s. He was an avid fan of the Washington Nationals and held season tickets for many years—cheering passionately from the stands through highs and lows alike. A lover of travel by plane, train, or automobile, Tom explored much of the world with curiosity and enthusiasm. His journeys took him across the United States by rail, overseas to Germany, England, Spain, north to Canada—and most recently—to Ireland where he visited with relatives.

Faith remained central throughout Tom’s life. Though raised Catholic, he later became an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where he served faithfully on the Church Council for several years.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife Carol Griffin Cook; daughter Angelica Cook; son Liam Cook; sister Carolyn (Kevin) O'Brien; brother James (Rita) Cook; brothers-in-law G. Patrick Clancy and Glenn (Sally) Griffin; sister-in-law Nancy (Mark) Parton, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father John Bernard Cook; mother Elizabeth Cavanaugh Cook; sisters Sr. Catherine Cook and Mary Anne Clancy; and brother Fr. Brian Cook.

Tom's legacy is one of service—to his country, community, faith, and family. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.

Visitation will be held on the evening of Friday, November 7, from 7 to 8:30 pm at the church.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Gambrills/Crofton, 1370 Defense Highway, Gambrills, Maryland 21054.