Obituary of Donald N. Cook

Donald N. Cook, 76, of Yardley, Pennsylvania, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 6, 2009. He was a resident of Freehold Township until 2000. Donald was a committed educator who retired from the Freehold Borough Schools after a career as both a teacher and principal, including positions in the Freehold Borough, Marlboro Township and Pemberton Township School Districts. Following his career in education, Donald was employed by the Freehold Area Hospital (now known as CentraState Medical Center, Freehold Township) in a variety of security-related positions. He was also a proud veteran of service in the U.S. Army. Donald earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Monmouth University and his Master’s Degree from Seton Hall University. After retirement, he enjoyed extensive travel and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. Donald was a parishioner of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Freehold for more than 40 years where he served as an usher. He was most recently a member of St. Andrew’s Parish, Newtown, PA. He was also a long-time member of the Freehold Borough Lion’s Club. Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Lorraine Cook and a brother Andrew Cook. He is survived by his son, Rear Admiral Kevin Cook, US Coast Guard and daughter-in-law Kristen Cook of Virginia Beach, VA; daughter, Bridget O’Malley and son-in-law, Gerard O’Malley of Newtown, PA; and six adoring grandchildren, Erin, Peter, Megan, Jayne, Holly, and Kelly. He is also survived by his sister, Alice Carr of Plattsburgh, NY and two sisters-in law, Lillian Cook of Plattsburgh, NY and Elizabeth Nolan of Bradenton, FL; along with several nieces and nephews. A viewing will be held at Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold on Friday, January 9, 2009 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Relatives and friends also may call at the funeral home on Saturday, January 10, 2009 from 8:45 to 9:30 a.m. The funeral liturgy will be celebrated at St. Rose of Lima Church, McLean and Randolph Streets, Freehold on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. followed by interment at St. Rose of Lima Cemetery, Freehold The family would appreciate contributions in Donald’s memory be made to St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, 81 Swamp Road, Newtown, PA 18940.