Richard T. Cook

Richard T. Cook, age 89, of Joppa, MD, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by loved ones on November 8, 2014. Born in Austinville, VA, he was the son of the late Robert Pearl and Claire Bell Stoots Cook. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he worked at the Ballistic Research Lab at Aberdeen Proving Ground for 37 ½ years. As a computer technician, he was a pioneer in the computer field working on the world's first computer, the ENIAC. He volunteered at GBMC hospital repairing donated equipment for resale and was a general handyman who could fix anything, especially electronics. He enjoyed nature, gardening and woodworking and was an avid horseman. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife around the continent ranging from Mexico to Alaska. He could quote the best routes to locations throughout the country. He also made trips overseas to Europe and an adventurous trip to Guyana, South America. From a young age he played guitar and loved Bluegrass music, he even was on a radio show back in the day.

Mr. Cook is survived by his wife of 36 years, Ann Miller Cook; son, Jerry Cook and wife, Betty, of Galax, VA; daughters, Deborah Farrand and husband, Tim, of Forest Hill and Lynn Melfa and husband, Stephen, of Rising Sun; four grandchildren, Christopher, Mathew, Tamara and Justin; ten great-grandchildren, two step grandchildren, Travis and Kimberly; two step great-grandchildren; and a niece, Bonnie Sue Kispert of Rosedale. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Lula Gardner.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Joppa Magnolia Fire Company, 1403 Old Mountain Road South, Joppa, MD 21085.