Donald Cook

Donald R. "Big D" Cook Donald Cook, 66, of Plattsburgh passed away April 5, 2016 after a brief but courageous battle with ALS. Known to his family and many friends as "Big D" and "Donnie" and to his grandchildren as Gumpa, he was born June 7, 1949, the eldest son of Donald and Elma (Patnode) Cook. He grew up in Ellenburg and graduated from Ellenburg Central School. Following high school he was drafted into the US Army and served in the Vietnam conflict as a medic in the Second Battalion Airmobile 12th Cavalry. He was decorated veteran, awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action. He was also a recipient of the Bronze Star and Airmedal. Donnie worked as a surgical technician at CVPH Medical Center where he was loved and well respected by his co-workers and the physicians he assisted. His exceptional skill, kindness, work ethic and sense of humor were welcome additions in the most challenging of surgical procedures. He retired from CVPH in June 2015. Donnie was happiest being with his family and good friends, sitting around his pool sharing a beverage. He enjoyed reading, cooking, country music, sports, especially the Yankees and visiting with his many friends. He was an exceptional father and grandfather. Always putting others before himself, he had a generous heart. He touched the lives of many through his work and kindness. Donnie is survived by his daughter Megan Cook and her partner Tim Parsons of Peasleeville; two grandchildren that were the light of his life, Ty Cook and Hannah Parsons. His best friend and Megans mother, Sue Stefanick; two brothers, Mark Cook and wife Sue of Plattsburgh and Neal "Chi" Cook and wife Cherie of Harkness; two sisters, Debbie Davies and husband Ken of Saranac and Judy Hart and husband Arthur of West Chazy and several nieces and nephews and their spouses and children. He will be greatly missed by his family and a close circle of friends from the hospital and the Dry Dock. He was predeceased by his parents, his step mother, Loretta Cook and a dear friend Rich Gordon. At Donald's request there will no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church in Plattsburgh, NY. Inurnment will be at the convenience of the family at the Saratoga National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to ALS or Wounded Warriors Project. Arrangements are entrusted to the Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad St, Plattsburgh, NY 12901. (518)-561-3980. Online condolences may be made at www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com