It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John (Jack) Cook of Ottawa, on March 31, 2026, at the age of 88. Jack was surrounded by his children and will be deeply missed.
John was born in Hull Quebec to Robert and Jane Cook on January 29,1938. He grew up there with his siblings Barbara, Ruth, Peter and Trudy, and soon became known as Jack to his family and friends.
At the young age of 19 he joined the Canadian Armed Forces where he became a respected soldier serving his country for 44 years. The military service included Peace Keeping duties in Cypress (1964) and Vietnam (1973). After serving as a non-commissioned officer for many years, he achieved the rank of Captain before retirement from the military. He worked as a civilian in the department of defense before full retirement in 2001.
After his marriage to Joyce (Bloom) in 1959, and the birth of their 3 children, Helen, Jean and Steven, Jack was dedicated to his family life. The purchase of a log cabin cottage in 1968 became the focus of many years of enjoyment for his young family and continued to his grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren.
During his retirement years, Jack and Joyce were dedicated volunteers with CHEO and enjoyed their time with their grandchildren. Jack mourned the loss of Joyce in January 2014 deeply. After recovering from major heart surgery, his volunteer and social life became more focused on his relationships at his church The Annunciation of Our Lord, and with new volunteer work at the Shepherds of Good Hope.
Jack became a resident of the Chartwell New Edinburgh Square Residence in 2023. He settled into his new home and quickly made new friends with the residents and staff. Their friendship and compassion brought new joy and comfort to Jack in his later years.
Predeceased by his loving wife Joyce (2014). Jack is lovingly remembered by his children, Helen Cook (Tom Wojcik), Jean Adamski (Daniel), Steven Cook (Lucy Collins). Cherished grandfather to Eric and Jason Adamski, Tom Collins and Raven Collins-Cook and their partners. Fondly remembered by his great grandchildren Pascal, Rowan and Quinn Adamski, and Lily Collins. Dearest brother to Ruth, Peter, Trudy. Predeceased by his sister Barbara
A visitation and funeral service for John Cook will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, at The Annunciation of Our Lord Church (2414 Ogilvie Road, Ottawa). Ontario (Contact - Annunciation Parish) Visitation will take place at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow at the church at 12:00 p.m.
In memory of John, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shepherds of Good Hope, CHEO Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.
We would like to thank the staff at Chartwell New Edinburgh Square for their caring, kindness and support during this time
Forever loved, never forgotten.
Jack and Joyce were wonderful friends to my late Mother, Maureen Corrigan, and neighbours to my BFF Wanda Jackson & her late husband Rick McNaughton. I was fortunate to share many a laugh with Jack over the years. He had a wicked sense of humour. His love for his beloved Joyce and his family, along with his strong Catholic faith, shone through in everything he did. My heart goes out to all who loved him. He will be missed, but remembered forever.