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Our world grew a little quieter on January 19, 2026, when Gregory (Greg) James Cook passed away suddenly at the age of 54.
Greg was born on December 1, 1971, in Ponoka, Alberta, to Arleigh and Berna Cook. As their first born, he entered the world with bright eyes, a beautiful spirit, and a smile that would become one of his greatest trademarks.
He grew up on a legacy farm – one that had been carried forward through three generations of the Cook family – a place full of tradition, hard work and community and that provided freedom for a young boy with an adventurous heart. He loved going to Grandma and Grandpa’s house and being outdoors exploring the farmyard and pastures, riding his bike, and spending time with the animals he loved. He could be found playing with the farm cats and dogs, following behind his dad as they fed pigs and cows, or trying to outrun the farm rooster that somehow decided Greg would be its daily hide and seek target, as if it were part of the morning chores.
Anyone who knew Greg will remember his smile – quick and genuine – often followed by laughter that could lighten even the heaviest day. The sparkle in his eyes, that often appeared with that smile, warmed many hearts and reflected his inherited sense of humor. He was a man with a loving heart, a gentle soul, and a spirit that leaned naturally toward kindness. He was quick to smile, always ready to laugh, and deeply loyal to the people he cared about. He valued friendship in a way that was rare and genuine. His friends meant a great deal to him, and he carried those relationships with gratitude and pride.
He loved his family, without end and without exception. Family was his foundation, his anchor, and the place where his loyalty shone brightest. He was a good-hearted person, a true friend to many, and someone who made others feel valued simply by being himself. He cared for family and friends with a quiet and unwavering devotion.
Greg shared a particularly strong bond with his sister, Tracy. Throughout his life, she was by his side — steady, compassionate, and strong. Her support and care were constant, and Greg cherished her. To him, she was not just a sister, but his guardian angel on earth.
His laughter, his loyalty and his deep love for his family are the gifts he leaves behind. Though he left us far too soon, his presence remains – carried in our memories, in the stories we tell, and in the love that will never fade. His legacy is one of kindness, loyalty and a heart that always had room for others.
He is survived by his mom, Berna; his sister, Tracy; his niece, Caleigh; his nephew, Jacob; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and many friends. He was predeceased by his dad, Arleigh; his grandparents, Ben and Betty Pears and Christopher and Bernice Cook; his uncles Gerry, Peter, Earnie, Lorne and Bill; and his aunties Carol and Laura.
A gathering in celebration of his life is planned for Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Ponoka Legion. All family and friends are welcome to join us in remembering Greg.
May we hold onto his smile. May we remember his laughter. May we feel the warmth of his love in all the days ahead.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gregory James Cook, please visit our floral store.