Richard Lee Cook passed away on October 26, 2024, in Butte, Montana at the age of 79.

Born on May 30, 1945 in Portland, Oregon, he grew up in Billings, Montana. After high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corp and lived most of his life in North San Diego County, California.

Rich worked many jobs throughout his adult life including a realtor, and bartender where he met several famous people and long time friends. Rich loved being surrounded by his family, especially the young kids. Rich had a passion for dogs and never met a dog that he didn't befriend. After he retired from the workforce, he lived with his sister Carol and brother-in-law Dan Weidinger in Havre and Belgrade. For the last 3 years of his life he was cared for by his niece, Nancy and her husband Ken Clark.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hobart "Pete" and Weymouth Cook and his beloved sisters Judy Smith and Carol Weidinger.

He is survived by his daughter Lori (Mark) Smethurst, grandsons Kyle and Ryan, ex-wife Linda Cook Cline, favorite cousin Susan Leone, his brother Leland, nieces Nancy (Ken) Clark, Barb Sander, Terry (Sheldon) Wise, Laurie Watkins, Lisa (Curtis) Uhl and many loving great nieces and nephews. Along with many life long Road Dawg friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the Crest Nursing Home in Butte for the loving care that Rich received in his final days, especially his two favorite caregivers, Nicole and Irma.

A private burial was held on November 4, 2024 with full military honors at the Yellowstone National Veterans Cemetery in Laurel, Montana, followed by a small reception.