On Sunday August 25th at 2:00 PM, surrounded by his son Christopher, daughter-in-law Ellen and wife of 42 precious years Marie-France, Harold Carver Cook passed peacefully after a 9-month battle with cancer.

Born in Bangor, Maine on August 11th, 1947 to Winston and Hilda Cook, he graduated from John Baptist High School before serving in Vietnam in the 173rd Airborne Division as a combat engineer. Upon returning home, he received his undergraduate degree from The University of Maine, his MBA from Husson University, then went on to receive his PhD from Ohio State University.

He traveled the country from Maine to the Florida Keys where he spent a great deal of time Scuba diving, often joking in his later years that he wished he had 2 nickels to rub together at that time so he could've bought some property. He ventured further around the world, meeting his wife Marie-France while living in Saudi Arabia, starting a family in Houston, then spending time in Germany and England before returning to Maine.

He was undeniably dedicated to his family, working tirelessly to ensure they were never left wanting for anything. He and his wife built successful businesses that ranged from a laundromat to a hazardous material remediation company, always making time to attend his son's sporting and school events. After retiring from his corporate career as a Global IT Commodity Team Leader in the Detroit area, he moved the family home base to Cherry Log, GA where he became an integral part of a truly special community. He served as HOA President, ensuring the neighborhood always looked pristine, and helped bring awareness of a relatively new sport called Pickleball to the greater community. He championed the game and taught countless people how to play with grace and encouragement. Often playing with his son, he won many tournaments, making the task look easy and frustrating his opponents with his tricky slices.

To his son, he was Dad, the rock who knew what to do in any situation and always provided unconditional love. To his wife, he was a loving partner, and together they faced the world, overcoming challenges and celebrating beautiful successes. To innumerable others he was a cherished friend, mentor, brother, father figure and so much more. To sum up his life in such few words doesn't even begin to do him justice, but those that knew him understand he was truly larger than life. He will forever be missed but will live on in the memories of his loved ones.

A Celebration of Life is planned for September 8th at 4:00 pm at the Victory Christian Center in Ellijay.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Homeward Bound Pet Rescue at https://hbpr.org/donate.html which was near and dear to his heart, having volunteered countless hours with his wife.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of these arrangements.