I had the privilege of knowing Tom, both personally and professionally. I have had a very difficult time with the realization that the funny, loud, very distracting, great guy that was my friend  and my patient, will not be coming in to the office any longer.  He would literally wait in the lobby and start a conversation with anyone in the office and all of them would be happily engage in conversation back!. I would have to pull him out of the lobby just to get him into a room so that he wouldn’t miss his appointment! He was the person that was always there when I had a problem with the bugs in my office, or a toilet that needed fixing, or a hook that needed to be hung for a plant I had. He was the most dependable, giving , and loving human being you could ever encounter.  It goes without saying that he had the gift of gab; but he was so entertaining. Whether it was talk of a new gadget, or a political forum, or just talking about his loving family. He just loved to talk! Professionally, I knew he was  always working with his diabetes and all the physical problems that can come with controlling it! He was trying to get an insulin pump that would be just perfect for him. Although he had struggles like most, he seemed  to always embrace life with a smile and a laugh. I will miss you so much, Tom  and I’m so lucky to have known you and appreciate all that you have taught me. 
Rest well, my friend. You will be missed .

A Memory of My Brother-in-Law Tom

It’s hard to put into words just how much my brother-in-law meant to me. I had the privilege of knowing him for over 30 years—a span of time that now feels both long and not nearly long enough. In those decades, he was more than family by marriage; he became family by heart.

We shared so many memories—some simple, like laughing over a barbecue on a summer afternoon (picture attached), others more profound, like the support he offered during life’s hardest times (he knows what I am talking about here). He had a way of making me feel validated and heard and knew that his support meant a lot me. His sense of humor was infectious, and his loyalty ran deep.  His wife and children always came first.  Everyone knew when Tom walked into a gathering, his distinct voice always stood out.  He could make you laugh when you didn’t even feel like smiling.  Honestly, Tom just knew how to make people laugh.

I remember the many holidays we spent together. I remember the long conversations that stretched into the night, where we’d talk about everything and nothing- usually his ideas on opening a business or some silly gadget he had just bought. I remember how he always showed up—not just physically, but fully. He was always there when it mattered most.

Losing him leaves a space that can’t be filled, but I am grateful for the years we had and the memories we made. He left behind love, laughter, and a legacy of kindness and strength. And in that way, he will always be with us.  We love you Tom!

Tom… wow. You were a gosh darn treasure.

For years, I searched for the “family treasure”—signing up for every DNA site, chasing old stories, following rumors that you might be out there. And in the end, just like in the movies, it wasn’t me who found the big red X marking the spot—it was you who found me.

From the moment we started talking, it felt like we had known each other our whole lives. And yet, you were unlike anyone I’d ever met. You were someone I truly admired. I looked up to you with awe and always looked forward to our next conversation. I don’t think anyone could have asked for a cooler big brother.

We talked for hours—about life, about family, about everything—and I genuinely enjoyed every minute of it. You had this way of making even an ordinary conversation feel like gold.

Though our time was far too short, the impact you made on my life will stay with me forever. And that’s not something I say lightly—because before you, I never imagined feeling this way about someone I’d only known for a few years.

I’m completely devastated—but at the same time, deeply grateful. Grateful for the chance to know you, even if just for a while. And if I can somehow become even half the man your loving parents, incredible wife, and amazing kids helped you become—then maybe, just maybe, we’ll meet again someday.

From the absolute bottom of my heart, I want you to know:
Your little brother will always love you.

Dearest Abby,

Don's and my deepest condolences for the loss of your loving son, Tom.   Know that your Rotary family loves and care for you deeply and pray for your comfort and peace during this most difficult time.  I felt very blessed to have had a happenstance time with Tom the week before and experienced the kindness and love he expressed for you and his family.  He was so excited for the move to be with you and to finally return the care that you have given to him throughout his life.  He shared how grateful he was for all that you do for them and what an amazing mom and grandma you are.   We share your sorrow and send our love and care.   Paula and Don

We've had the honor of knowing Tom for over 25 years, and in that time, one thing always remained true—Tom was genuine.
Many of us can relate to how a quick call with Tom would turn into a meaningful catch-up, picking up right where we left off, no matter how much time had passed. He had a way of making you feel like you were the only person that mattered in that moment. He never spoke an ill word about anyone, always choosing instead to look for the good or understand the “why” behind things. Even through the phone, you could hear his smile—it was just part of who he was.
Tom had the gift of gab, no doubt about that—but what set him apart was how intently he listened. He made you feel heard, respected, and understood.
There were three things Tom never failed to talk about: his deep love for his wife and kids, his love for his Mom, and his service as a veteran. These weren’t just topics—these were the core of who he was.
Tom was a good man. A kind, honest, and sincere soul who made a lasting impact on everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege to call him a friend.

It’s hard to find the words to express the sadness I feel at the loss of Tom. We shared countless conversations—what started as a quick check-in would somehow turn into an hour-long call about life, family, and everything in between. He had a gift for making people feel heard, understood, and never alone.

We often talked about being veterans and how deeply he cared about supporting others who served. That sense of service was a part of who he was, not just in uniform but in every corner of his life.

What stood out most, always, was his love for his family. He adored his wife and kids and spoke about them with such pride and devotion. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for them. That kind of love is rare and beautiful.

I’m grateful for the memories, the laughs, and the   
long phone calls on the way home from work. He made a lasting impact on my life and the lives of many. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Rest easy, my friend. Your kindness, your stories, and your spirit will stay with us always.

I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Tom. I had the privilege of working alongside him, and I can honestly say he was one of the most genuine and thoughtful people I’ve ever worked with. I’ll especially miss his calls — they would often start with a simple question about work, but somehow turn into long, meaningful conversations about life, his family, and everything in between. Those moments meant a lot to me. His presence, his kindness, and his perspective made a real impact. Tom will be truly missed, both professionally and personally. Thank you, Tom, for everything.

Irma B.
Coworker 
5/29/25
My Dear Mr. Tom, I'll miss 😢 you, 
There are no words that can convey my deepest sympathy for his loss.  He was a treasure to all who knew him.  A very special and unique person. God called him, he was a Good man. 
My prayers for his Family

I've known and worked with Tom for twelve years. Tom was an American Patriot and decorated Marine,  he was proud to have served his country.   You could trust and count on Tom as a friend,  he would be there on an ask.  Tom gave on so many levels to all he knew,  he was passionate about all aspects of life and could make you laugh.  This man was a caring soul and I'm proud to have called him my friend.
My condolences to his Wife and Family

I was friends with Tom for over twenty years when we both worked for Dewey Pest Control. Tom was one of the most honest, reliable, humerus and even tempered people I have ever known. Tom was always uplifting during all our trials and tribulations as branch managers, I will miss him and I’m proud to say he was my friend. 
My deepest condolences to his wife and family.

OBITUARY

Thomas Allen Cook

November 16, 1969 – May 25, 2025

McAulay and Wallace Mortuary

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