John William Cook, 53, of Palm Coast, Florida, passed away on October 17, 2014, at Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center in Ormond Beach, Florida. He was born on September 25, 1961, to Willie and Ramona Janet (Cline) Cook in Gainesville, Florida.

He attended the University of Florida, where he donated an engraved brick in his and his son's name on the walkway of his beloved Florida Gators. He was a volunteer usher during home games, where he greeted everyone with his infectious smile and his enthusiastic spirit.

John worked for many years as a professional chef in the Gainesville area before becoming a Network Director at the Partnership for Strong Families. A true computer "guru," he enjoyed his job, and his co-workers, immensely and was always happy to contribute one of his delicious rum cakes whenever a fundraiser took place.

John was devoted to Boy Scout Troop 454 in Gainesville, where he was the Assistant Scout Master and Patrol Advisor with the Penguin Patrol. He was also a part of the Order of the Arrow. He particularly enjoyed mentoring the boys in his troop and watching them become responsible and civic-minded young men.
John enjoyed so many things, particularly camping, hiking, and fishing. He was a veteran hiker of the Appalachian Trail, where he earned the trail name of "Chuck Wagon" due to his cooking skills.

John is survived by his wife, Janice Cook, of Palm Coast, Florida; his son, Chase Cook, of Gainesville, Florida; his ex-wife and friend, Pamela Cook, of Gainesville, Florida; and his brothers, Randy Cook, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Mark Cook of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Contributions in John's memory may be made to the American Heart Association. A memorial service is in the planning stages and will be held with the participation of Boy Scout Troop 454 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Florida.