Donald M. Cook age 78 went home to be with his Lord on Sunday September 7, 2025. Don was born in Nyack , NY on September 21, 1946 and was the son of the late Melvin N. and Margaret (DeMartini) Cook. In addition to his parents, Don was pre-deceased by his brother, Kelly; brothers-in-law: Gail Tanner, Guy Tanner, Richard Tanner, and Dale Tanner; sister-in-law, Betty Jo Tanner. Don is survived by his loving wife Jane T. Cook; son and daughter-in-law: Christopher and Jennifer Cook ; grandsons: Ian Cook and Jude Cook; sisters-in-law: Earlene Tanner and Danice Tanner ; as well as nephews, cousins, and dear friends . Services for Don will be held at a later date, at the convenience of the family. A longtime resident of Horseheads, NY, Don was a high school English teacher. He also taught English in Maryland, retiring with more than 40 years of service in education. After retiring from teaching, Don remained active in the education of his two grandsons who were the highlights of his life. Don often drove them to school, to their extra-curricular activities, and to their many lacrosse practices throughout the years. He attended their games as an active, enthusiastic, and supportive presence. Don thoroughly enjoyed spending quality time with Ian and Jude. Don liked working outside his home, keeping his lawn, plants, and flowers in pristine condition. Don also enjoyed good company and warm conversation. He will forever missed and always remembered as a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Memorial donations may be made to CareFirst NY (carefirstny.org) 3805 Meads Creek Road Painted Post, NY 14870. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Care First and its amazingly dedicated staff of nurses and healthcare workers. Also a special thank you is extended to his daily companions and caregivers Mary Frances Baker and her daughter Leslie Baker ; lifelong friend and colleague David Ridosh; very trusted, and mutually respected friend Patrick Ungerland ; special neighbor Albert Comfort ; reliable friend Peter Sedlack; and the daily support and comfort of Dani Tanner. In addition, a special thank you is extended to his friends in Virginia, Heather Walters, and Christine and Phil O'Donahue. Don taught about Robert Frost and his poetry. However, it wasn't until his wife (Jane) pointed out the significance of one of his poems, "Road Not Takin" , that Don felt it pertain to his own life. The poem resonated and became meaningful to him… "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by and that has made all the difference."