Roger A. Cook, the owner of K&R Tree and Landscape Company in Burlington and a long-time cast member of “This Old House,” passed away at 70 on August 21, 2024, after battling an extended illness. He was the devoted husband of the late Kathleen E. (Gulde) Cook, who preceded him in death on December 1, 2010.
Born in Biddeford, Maine, Roger was the second son of Lucienne and Arthur Cook, Jr. The family moved to Woburn before settling in Burlington, where he graduated from Burlington High School in the Class of 1972, participating in varsity basketball and football. He started his landscaping career during high school, later earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management and Conservation Law from the University of Maine. In 1982, Roger and Kathy founded K&R Tree and Landscaping, which they successfully ran together for over 40 years, building the business from modest beginnings with a jeep, trailer, and lawn mower.
Roger’s connection to “This Old House” began in 1982 when he was a landscape foreman for a local company. He became a full-time cast member in 1988 during the renovation of the Lexington Bed & Breakfast. As a certified landscape contractor in Massachusetts, Roger was active in various professional organizations and appeared in “Dig Safe” commercials. Despite his television fame and an Emmy Award for lifetime achievement in 2022, he remained humble and relatable, helping neighbors and coaching his children’s basketball teams. He cherished family time, whether at sports events or enjoying summer days at Cape Cod, where he loved fishing and relaxing on the beach.
Roger and Kathy, high school friends, became a supportive couple who raised their children in the community where they grew up, instilling strong values. He encouraged his children to pursue their passions and prioritized family during difficult times. His pride in being a “Papa” to his three grandsons was evident, and he greatly valued family above all.
In recent years, Roger faced health challenges but remained steadfast in maintaining a sense of normalcy for his family. He was surrounded by loved ones who provided care and support in his final years. Remembered not just for his accomplishments, Roger’s legacy is characterized by his commitment to his family and the love he shared.
Surviving him are 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 Thousand Oaks, CA; and various relatives.
Visiting hours are scheduled for Tuesday, August 27th, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home in Burlington, while other services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages planting a tree in Roger’s honor to commemorate his dedication to the environment.