In loving memory ~
James Leonard ("Len") Cook was born in Charlo, New Brunswick, and grew up on the family farm. After studying agricultural chemistry at McGill University, Len moved back to his home province to work for the New Brunswick Department of Agriculture. Following this, a job with Dow Chemical in Sarnia, Ontario, provided Len with the good fortune of meeting the love of his life, Lenore Stirling.
The next move brought Len to Toronto, to the Ontario College of Education, and the beginning of a new career as a high school chemistry teacher in Strathroy, Ontario, where he spent four years before moving to London, Ontario, to continue his teaching career.
Len and Lenore were married in 1957 and their family of three daughters was raised in London. Len was a very involved father who loved to travel and spend time outdoors, and all his daughters were strongly influenced by those long, fun summers of camping in many parts of Canada and the U.S. He enjoyed teaching his children and grandchildren, and whether it be through games, sports, or impromptu science lessons, it always involved humour and his famous love of puns. We will have Dad and Grandpa stories to tell for years to come.
After 40 years in London, Len and Lenore moved to Comox, B.C. to be closer to children and grandchildren who had settled there. The small, friendly community with its beautiful natural setting soon felt like home. Wherever he was living, Len enjoyed being active. He liked to travel, hike, bike and just be outdoors. He enjoyed lots of games, including curling, golf, tennis, and bridge, as well as attending music and theatre events and socializing with friends. Len's quiet, thoughtful nature led him to be a polite and considerate person, and a caring friend.
In late 2017 Len and Lenore moved into Berwick Retirement Community in Comox, and Len continued to enjoy his daily rambles at Filberg Park, Goose Spit and the Marina. Due to declining health, Len spent his final year and a half at The Views care facility in Comox, and he passed away peacefully there at the age of 95.
Special thanks to Dr. Potter-Cogan for his care over the past 23 years, and to all the wonderful staff at The Views.
Len was predeceased by his sister, Elva Smith. He is survived by his wife Lenore Cook; his daughters Paula Field (Kathy Long), Susan Cook, and Cathy Cook (Kevin Watson); his grandsons Gregory Field, Colin Walker (Nikki Biro), Jared Hills, and Tom Walker. He will be missed by all of us.
At Len's request, the family will have a private memorial service.
Condolences may be offered at www.telfordtoneffboyd.ca.
