Tom Cook

On September 23, 1962, in Indianapolis, IN, Tom was welcomed into the world by his parents, the late Arthur and Patricia (Parker) Cook. He attended area schools and graduated from Warren Central High School.

Following high school, Tom went on to Study at Purdue University where he received a BA in English and Film Studies in 1985 and later the University of Southern California earning an MFA in Film Production in 1992.

Between his college studies, Tom married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Kelly Todd.

In 1994, Tom and his growing family moved to Keene, NH after accepting a position as Professor of Film Studies at Keene State College. He had a true passion for film and education which was demonstrated by his initiation of the Annual KSC Film Festival and involvement as the Chair of several committees including Promotions and Technology.

In addition to his full-time career, Tom had produced independent videos on safety training for local businesses. For several years, he served at the President on the Board of Directors for Cheshire TV. On Fridays, you could listen to his film reviews on the local radio station, WKBK.

Family was the center of Tom’s life. He treasured being actively involved in his sons’ lives, coaching baseball with Cal Ripken and Babe Ruth teams all the way from T-ball to the senior leagues. Tom enjoyed trips with his family and enjoying the outdoors. It didn’t matter where he was, if there was water, Tom would undoubtedly be scuba diving. He was a life-long fan of the Chicago Cubs and was fortunate to see them play in the 2016 World Series.

Tom will be dearly missed by his wife of over 37 years: Kelly Cook of Keene, NH; sons he was so proud of: Ben Cook and his wife Shelby Redfield of Boston, MA and Walter Cook of Keene, NH; brother: Kevin Cook and his wife Pamela Marin of Northampton, MA; sister-in-law: Leslee Newport and her husband Howard of Noblesville, IN; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and may close friends and colleagues.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to be made to the Keene State College Department of Film Studies to be used for the purchase of film equipment: 229 Main Street, Keene, NH 03431.