Richard R. Cook

Rick Cook, a lifelong resident of Appleton, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospital, where he was also born on November 16, 1955, to the late May (Bergacker) and Ralph Cook.

Rick married Carrie Peterson on July 31, 1982, and they had two cherished sons, Jacob and Mitchel. He worked at Kimberly Clark many years, and later owned and operated a computer sales and services company, Sunset Systems. His wide range of electrical, mechanical, and woodworking skills made him the go-to for friends and family, which earned him the nickname “Wizard.” His abundance of kindness and willingness to help others meant he was always able to share his varied talents with others. Known as the grill master, Rick was a skilled cook, who enjoyed hosting family dinners and holidays.

The cottage in Crandon, WI, was where Rick enjoyed his free time during any season: hunting with his sons, maple sugaring, and fishing. Every August, his loving sisters and their spouses would get together after the Cook reunion for a week in the woods.

Most of all, spending time with his family was his favorite pastime.

Survivors include his loving wife, Carrie; sons Jacob (Elizabeth) and Mitchel (Crystal Thompson); his grandson, James; his sisters, Faith Van Toll, Judith Hogan (William), Kathy Moe (Skip), Linda Priebe; and many other relatives.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Melody Overkleeft; and in-laws, Ken and Vi Peterson.

The family would like to sincerely thank all the doctors and nurses at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton and Gold Cross staff for their care and efforts.

In lieu of flowers, feel free to donate in Rick’s name to the Red Cross, Humane Society, or a charity of your choice.

A funeral service for Rick will take place Tuesday November 11, 2025, at 11:00am, at Wichmann Funeral Home-Tri County Chapel, 1592 Oneida Street, Menasha. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 9:00am until the service begins.