Gary Ralph Cook

June 4, 1947 - January 8, 2022

ESCONDIDO — Our beloved Gary Ralph Cook passed away on January 8, 2022. He was born on June 4, 1947, in San Diego, California, to C. Ralph and M. Jean Cook. Gary graduated from Orange Glen High School in 1965. After high school, he attended California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, California. Following his graduation, Gary was drafted into the US Army and did one tour of duty in Vietnam.

Once home from Vietnam, Gary returned to California and married the love of his life, Patricia Jean Cook in 1976. The following year, Gary and Pat sailed to the South Pacific with his uncle Jim McFeron and family. After their return from Tahiti, Gary and Pat spent their lives in Escondido. Gary worked at Crest View Manor and Valle Vista Convalescent Hospital, while he and Pat raised their twins, Tyson and Marquesa.

Throughout his life, Gary fostered and cultivated relationships throughout San Diego, working as a health care administrator for fifty years. He was a family man who tirelessly supported his family and friends. During his life, Gary enjoyed golfing, surfing, traveling, Rotary, and classic cars.

Gary was a pillar of strength for his family. He loved being a son, husband, father, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed.

Gary is preceded in death by his wife, Pat; his father and mother, Ralph and Jean Cook; and sisters Barbara Johnston and Patti Jo Miles. Gary is survived by his son Tyson Cook, his wife Jenni and their daughter Harper; and his daughter Marquesa Cook-Whearty, her husband Brandan and their children Mara, Macallan, and Maeve. A viewing for Gary will be held on Monday, January 17th from 5:00pm8:00pm at Alhiser-Comer Mortuary in Escondido. A graveside service will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, January 18th at Dearborn Memorial Park in Poway, with reception for family and friends to follow at Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens in Escondido. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to your favorite charity in honor of Gary.