Keith Cook

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Keith W. Cook, 76, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose life was a testament to the virtues of humility, kindness, and love. Born on March 14, 1949, to the late Merrill and Ruth (Klein) Cook. Keith was a long-time resident of Easton, New York, where he left an indelible mark on the community through his generosity, work ethic, and deep love for his family and community.

An embodiment of the quote, "The ultimate test of a man's conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard".

Known for his selfless heart, he was affectionately called “the real Santa Claus” by his family, always ready with a thoughtful gift for a stranger or a word of encouragement when it was most needed. He was always ready with a helping hand, whether it was helping a close friend or pulling a stuck skier out of the ditch; he was there, expecting nothing in return.

He was a proud and hardworking individual who, along with his wife, owned and operated Leaning Birch Farm and Cook Transport, his trucking company.

In the rare moments he wasn’t working, he could be found pulling his 560 International tractor. He loved talking about farming with his friends at the Tri-State Antique Tractor Club.

He was equally passionate about raising horses and found great joy competing in Team
Penning at Pond Hill Ranch with his family and friends. Each year, Keith cherished the time spent with his family at county fairs, indulging in fair food. But he favored his wife's home cooking, especially her black cap pie.

Keith, along with his wife, served on the board of directors at Battenkill Community Services, where he found great joy and meaning in supporting its mission and members. Above all, Keith valued farming and family. He was a pillar of support for his loved ones, holding on for his late son, Aaron Cook, seeing him through to the end, with whom he is now reunited in heaven.

Keith is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Cheryl (Babcock) Cook, daughters Melissa (Jack Perreault) Cook and Melodie Cook, grandchildren, Ella and Chance Perreault, brothers Craig (Barb) Cook and Kimball Cook, and sister-in-law Pat Babcock, along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his beloved son Aaron Merrill Cook.

Visitation for Keith will be held on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Flynn Bros. Inc. Funeral Home at 80 Main Street, Greenwich, NY. His Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 10:00 am at the same location. Graveside Services will be held at Easton Rural Cemetery at 11:00 am.

Donations can be made in Keith's name to Battenkill Community Services, 72 Main Street, Greenwich, NY, 12834.

A Benefit Cookout & Raffles in memory of Keith and Aaron will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 pm at Greenwich Elks Lodge 2223.

In honor of Keith's spirit of generosity, we encourage everyone to share memories, stories, and photographs of him on the memorial page at www.flynnbrosinc.com. His memory will be kept alive in the stories we share and the lives he touched.