Roger Cook, longtime "This Old House" landscaper, dies at age 70

Roger Cook, longtime “This Old House” landscaper, dies at age 70,

Remembering Roger Cook: The Heart of “This Old House” Landscaping

A Legacy in Landscaping

Roger Cook, the beloved landscape contractor from the PBS home improvement series “This Old House,” has passed away at the age of 70. Cook’s death on Wednesday followed a prolonged battle with illness, as announced by the show.

A Storied Career

Cook’s journey with “This Old House” began in 1982 when the series was produced by WGBH-TV in Boston. He became a full-time member of the team in 1988, starting with the renovation of a bed and breakfast in Lexington. Over the course of more than four decades, Cook’s expertise and dedication shaped countless landscapes, making him a cherished figure in the home improvement world.

“Soft-Spoken But No-Nonsense”

Described as having a “soft-spoken but no-nonsense approach,” Cook was highly regarded by his colleagues and the “This Old House” community. An article on the show’s website praised his ability to provide answers and solutions with a quiet confidence. Chris Wolfe, the executive producer of “This Old House,” reflected on Cook’s impact, noting, “I remember every lesson from Roger. More importantly, there are millions of people whose lives have been enriched by everything Roger taught them.”

A Life Rooted in Massachusetts

Cook’s roots were deeply embedded in Massachusetts. Raised in Woburn and Burlington, he pursued a degree in wildlife management and conservation from the University of Maine. In 1982, he co-founded K&R Landscape in Woburn with his wife, Kathy, marking the beginning of a successful career in landscaping.

Honoring Roger Cook

Visiting hours for Roger Cook will be held on August 27 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home in Burlington. In lieu of flowers, Cook’s obituary requests that mourners “please plant a tree in your local community to honor Roger’s lifelong environmental efforts.”

Roger Cook’s contributions to landscaping and his role on “This Old House” have left an indelible mark on the world of home improvement. His legacy will continue to inspire both professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Famous Memorial and Join TELEGRAM

Roger Cook, longtime “This Old House” landscaper, dies at age 70

FAQs About Roger Cook

Q: Who was Roger Cook?

A: Roger Cook was the longtime landscape contractor for the PBS home improvement series “This Old House.” He was known for his expertise in landscaping and gardening, and he contributed to the show for over 40 years.

Q: When did Roger Cook pass away?

A: Roger Cook passed away on Wednesday, following a prolonged battle with illness. He was 70 years old.

Q: How long was Roger Cook involved with “This Old House”?

A: Roger Cook began working with “This Old House” in 1982, when the show was produced by WGBH-TV in Boston. He became a full-time member of the team in 1988 and continued his work on the show until he stepped back in 2018.

Q: What was Roger Cook’s approach to landscape contracting?

A: Roger Cook was known for his “soft-spoken but no-nonsense approach” to landscape contracting. He was highly respected for his practical solutions and the depth of his knowledge in the field.

Q: Why did Roger Cook step away from his role on “This Old House”?

A: In 2018, Roger Cook shared that he was stepping away from his full-time role on the show due to “several health issues that have made performing on television more difficult.”

Q: Where did Roger Cook grow up and what was his educational background?

A: Roger Cook grew up in Woburn and Burlington, Massachusetts. He graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in wildlife management and conservation management.

Q: What is planned for Roger Cook’s memorial?

A: Visiting hours for Roger Cook will be held on August 27 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home in Burlington. In lieu of flowers, his obituary requests that mourners plant a tree in their local community to honor his lifelong environmental efforts.

Q: How will Roger Cook be remembered?

A: Roger Cook will be remembered for his significant contributions to landscaping and his long-term role on “This Old House.” His legacy includes the many landscapes he created and the knowledge he imparted to viewers and colleagues alike.