Obituary of Harold R. Cook

Harold R. Cook, Sr. Harold R. Cook, Sr., 92, of Rome, passed into the hands of the Lord at home with his family by his side on Wednesday, July 17, 2013 after a long illness. One of 14 children, Harold was born in Constable, NY on April 4, 1921, son of the late Bert and Clara Pickering Cook. Harold was united in marriage to Beatrice C. Mesagna on March 15, 1947, a blessed union of 66 years. He proudly served the U.S. Air Force during World War II from 1942-1949. Harold worked 30 years at Utica Club Brewery, and then as a carrier for the Rome Sentinel for 20 years. He was also a school crossing guard for 20 years, retiring in 2011 for health reasons. Harold enjoyed watching his favorite team the New York Yankees and loved taking rides on his scooter with his flag waving in the wind. Harold was proud of his "Christmas House," which was highly decorated with many Christmas lights for his family and friends throughout the city to enjoy. He also enjoyed golfing with Bob Aldrich, Sr. Surviving besides his loving wife Beatrice, are two sons and daughters-in-law, Harold and Elsie Cook, Plattsburgh, NY, Ray and Vicki Cook, Missouri; three daughters and a son-in-law, Colleen and Simon Koenig, Lucille Cook, and Roxanne Aldrich, all of Rome; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews, including a special niece Cindy DeProspero. Also surviving are three brothers-in-law, Tony Mesagna, Pasquale "Pat" Mesagna, both of Rome, and Rocco Mesagna, of Sylvan Beach. He also leaves behind his canine pal Trixie, who he loved dearly. Harold was predeceased by brothers, sisters, and in-laws. The family would like to express a special thank you to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 9:30 AM at the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home, Inc., 218 W. Court St. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 4-7 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middlesettlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413. To offer online condolences, please go to www.njbushfuneralhome.com.