Rita J Cook

Rita J. Cook, age 72, passed away Sunday, May 21, 2023 at Kobacker with her sons. She was born January 13, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio by Charles and Rosemary Solomon. Rita is survived by her sons Eric Cook (Whitney) and Ross Cook (Holly), her mother Rosemary Solomon, and sister Michele Stravelakis (Nick). She is also survived by 5 grandchildren, and dear family and friends. Rita is proceeded in death by her husband of 51 years Alan Cook and first-born child, Bryan Cook.

Rita enjoyed creating watercolor paintings and other arts and crafts. Rita and Alan could be found at art shows searching for a new piece for their collection. She had an eye for design and was always ahead of trend with tasteful styles. Gardening was favorite pass time of Rita’s and another creative outlet.

Early Rita found success in retail sales at Lazarus in downtown Columbus, Ohio. Her occupation transitioned to the needs of a young family of 5. When her children started playing soccer, she began a career in youth soccer. She retired as VP of Mid-Ohio Select Soccer League (MOSSL) and is affectionately known as the Queen of Youth Soccer. Her passion for soccer was shared by Alan and their sons. Every weekend was filled with tournaments for the traveling teams the boys played for.

Rita and Alan became high school sweethearts and were inseparable from thereafter. They graduated from Whetstone High School in 1969 and married at 21 years of age. Their love continued to grow while traveling to Mexico and embarking on cruises to Virgin Islands.

Late in life Rita was diagnosed with CBGD, an extremely rare neurodegenerative disease that is categorized under both Parkinsonian syndromes and frontal lobe dementias. Rita was still able to enjoy family and friends thanks to Eric and Whitney taking her and Alan into their home. They were surrounded by their dearest family for every moment possible.