Roger Cook Obituary & Death: What Happened to Roger Cook?
Roger Cook, the landscape contractor famous for his work on the long-running PBS series This Old House, stepped away from the show in 2020 due to ongoing health issues. A fixture on the program since 1988, Cook became well-known for his expert advice on landscaping and gardening. His retirement marked the end of an era, but his contributions continue to have a lasting impact on viewers and the landscaping industry.
Roger Cook’s Health Challenges and Retirement
In 2018, Cook publicly disclosed that he had been dealing with serious health challenges, though he never specified the exact nature of his condition. Viewers began to notice his declining mobility, which led to speculation about his health. Despite his challenges, Cook continued working on the show until 2020, when he officially retired to focus on his well-being.
As of recent updates, Roger Cook has remained private about his health and life after This Old House. There have been no major announcements regarding his condition, and he continues to live outside the public eye.
Roger Cook’s Early Career and Rise to Fame
Before becoming a household name on television, Roger Cook earned a Bachelor of Science degree in wildlife management and conservation law from the University of Maine. His love for the outdoors and the environment eventually led him to pursue a career in landscaping.
In 1982, Cook became a certified landscape contractor and was soon invited to join This Old House as a guest, where he worked alongside the original landscape expert, Don Kotlowski. Cook’s deep knowledge, combined with his warm personality, quickly made him a natural fit for the show.
Becoming a Full-Time Member of This Old House
By 1988, Cook became the full-time landscape contractor for This Old House, officially replacing Don Kotlowski. Over the next three decades, Cook became one of the most recognizable faces on the show. His segments focused on outdoor projects, from small backyard makeovers to large-scale landscaping transformations. His practical advice helped countless viewers improve and maintain their own properties.
In addition to his work on This Old House, Cook regularly appeared on its companion show, Ask This Old House, where he answered viewer questions and provided hands-on demonstrations. His emphasis on sustainable landscaping practices and environmentally-friendly design helped further establish his reputation as an expert in his field.
K & R Tree and Landscape Co.
Outside of his television career, Roger Cook was the owner of K & R Tree and Landscape Co., which he co-founded with his late wife, Kathleen. The company provided comprehensive landscaping services, including tree care, and became highly regarded for its professionalism and expertise. Cook’s work with K & R reflected his dedication to the landscape industry and further showcased his commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Roger Cook’s Legacy in Landscaping
Roger Cook’s contributions to This Old House earned him widespread recognition and numerous accolades. The show itself won several Emmy Awards during his time on the team, solidifying his place as one of the most trusted voices in home improvement and landscaping television.
While Cook has remained private since his retirement, his influence is still felt by those who watched him on television and followed his advice. His approachable style, combined with a deep knowledge of landscaping and gardening, made him a beloved figure in the home improvement world.
Personal Life of Roger Cook
Roger Cook was married to Kathleen Cook, who passed away in 2010. The couple had two children. Since his retirement, Cook has maintained a low profile, focusing on his health and personal life away from the public spotlight.
ALso Read: Jessica Garrod Death & Obituary: Wife Of Dominic Dieter Rover’s Morning Glory Has Passed Away
Conclusion
Roger Cook’s career on This Old House spanned more than 30 years, during which he left an indelible mark on the landscape industry and television audiences. Though he retired due to health issues, his legacy as a knowledgeable, approachable, and kind-hearted landscape contractor endures. Fans of the show continue to remember and appreciate the wisdom he shared, and his impact on sustainable landscaping practices remains influential. While he has stepped away from the spotlight, Roger Cook’s legacy will live on for years to come.