Roger A. Cook, the beloved owner of K&R Tree and Landscape Company in Burlington and a long-time cast member of “This Old House,” passed away at the age of 70 on August 21, 2024, after a prolonged illness. He was the dedicated husband of the late Kathleen E. (Gulde) Cook, with whom he shared many happy years before her death in 2010.
Born in Biddeford, Maine, Roger was the second son of Lucienne and Arthur Cook, Jr. The family eventually moved to Burlington, where he graduated from Burlington High School in 1972, excelling in varsity basketball and football. Throughout his schooling, he also gained experience in landscaping during part-time jobs. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in wildlife management and conservation law from the University of Maine. Despite his success, Roger remained humble, having founded K&R Tree and Landscaping with his wife Kathy in 1982. They worked together for over 40 years, with Roger focusing on the landscaping while Kathy managed the business side. They believed that a well-designed landscape could offer comfort and beauty to any home.
Roger’s association with “This Old House” began in 1982 when he first appeared on the show while working as a landscape foreman for the Frost and Higgins Company. By 1988, following his role in the Lexington Bed & Breakfast renovation, he became a full-time cast member as the garden and landscape contractor. A certified landscape contractor in Massachusetts, Roger was active in various professional organizations, including serving as president of the Massachusetts Arborist Association and participating in campaigns promoting safe digging practices. Despite his television fame, receiving an Emmy Award in 2022 and maintaining a strong social media presence, Roger remained genuine and approachable. He was known for his kindness, willingness to help others, and passion for landscaping, making him a relatable figure to viewers and friends alike.
Roger and Kathy dated after high school and became a strong team, instilling values and a strong work ethic in their children while supporting each other’s careers. Roger was a devoted father and grandfather, cherishing time spent with his three grandsons and supporting his children’s passions. In recent years, he faced challenges due to illness but remained proud and determined to maintain normalcy in his family’s life. Surrounded by loved ones, Roger received the care and respect he deserved in his final years.
He is survived by his children, Jason Roger Cook and his wife Anna of Boston, and Molly E. Cook of Medford; his grandsons, Peter, Noah, and James; his brother, Greg A. Cook and his wife Jill of California; and several in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visiting hours are scheduled for August 27th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home in Burlington. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in the form of planting a tree in Roger’s honor, celebrating his lifelong commitment to environmentalism.