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Lee M. Cook, 80, Vero Beach, Florida, formerly of Killingworth and Madison

Lee M. Cook, 80, of Vero Beach, Florida, formerly of Killingworth, died peacefully in his sleep on April 14. Lee was the husband of 59 years to Winnie Cook, the love of his life, who predeceased him in 2009. Lee was born on Dec. 27, 1930, the youngest son of Clarence and Alberta (Coates) Cook.  He grew up in Madison and was employed by the New Haven Trap Rock Quarry Company until his first retirement in 1985.  Lee owned and operated Cook’s Village Pub in Killingworth until his real retirement in 1996, at which time he headed to Vero Beach, Florida, where he spent his days playing golf and having lunch with his beloved wife and many friends. Lee was a member of American Legion Post 39 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Vero Beach, Florida. He was also a lifetime member of the Westbrook Elks Lodge No. 1784, an achievement he proudly earned in 2010.

Lee loved his wife, was proud of his family, and was devoted to his country.  He returned to Connecticut every summer to spend time with family and friends, and the highlight of his trip was always the Deep River Ancient Muster.  Lee also enjoyed music and had a wonderful singing voice.  He loved to hear and tell jokes, and he was a huge fan of the Yankees, a point of contention for several of his children and grandchildren.  Lee was truly a gentleman’s gentleman, a sensitive, soft-spoken man with a kind soul.  

He is survived by his five children, Jeff Cook of Killingworth, Linda Grenman and her husband John of East Hampton, Craig Cook, of New York, New York, Karen Sypher and her husband Raymond of Essex, and John Cook of Deep River.  He is also survived by four grandchildren, Tracy, Jodi, Kelly, and Geoffrey; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. He was predeceased by his beloved dog, Suzie. He was also predeceased by two brothers and a sister.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 21, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Robinson, Wright, and Weymer Funeral Home, 34 Main St., Centerbrook, followed by a celebration of Lee’s life, which will take place at June’s Outback Pub in Killingworth. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, MA  02241.