Roger Cook, a cherished landscape expert and longtime host of This Old House, has died at age 70.

Cook, famed for his role on PBS long-running series passed away on Aug. 21, leaving a legacy of gardening and landscaping wisdom, as People reports.

In 1982, Cook embarked on a significant career journey by joining the cast of This Old House, a show that would make him a household name among DIY enthusiasts and home improvement aficionados.

That same year, he co-founded K&R Tree and Landscaping Company, blending his professional pursuits with personal passion.

By 1988, Cook's expertise and engaging teaching style secured him a full-time position as the landscape contractor in the program. His knack for making complex landscaping concepts accessible made him a favorite among viewers and colleagues alike.

His onscreen career expanded in 2002 when he became a regular on Ask This Old House, a spin-off that allowed viewers to seek direct advice from experts like Cook, further cementing his influence in the field of home improvement.

Dedication to Education and Environmental Care

Cook was more than just a television personality; he was a dedicated educator who used catchy phrases to simplify landscaping for the everyday homeowner. Phrases like “Plant it high, it won’t die; plant it low, it won’t grow” enabled homeowners to remember best practices in gardening easily.

His wife, Kathy, who co-founded their landscaping company and supported his career, passed away in 2010, yet Roger continued to demonstrate resilience and commitment to his craft and viewers.

In 2018, health challenges began to hinder his ability to perform at his best, prompting him to publicly address his situation and reduce his roles in the shows to focus on his well-being and spend more time with his family.

Transition and Heartfelt Goodbyes

The health issues that Cook openly battled with led to his final departure from This Old House in 2020.

His transparency about his health battles resonated deeply with his audience, showcasing his strength and vulnerability.

Cook is succeeded by his son Roger, daughter Molly, and three grandchildren, who have seen firsthand the impact of his passionate efforts in environmental advocacy and education.

In recognition of his environmental efforts, Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home stated, as an expression of sympathy, instead of flowers, the planting of a tree in local communities would serve to honor Roger’s lifelong commitment to greening the earth.

Immense Impact and Lasting Legacy

Throughout his career, Roger Cook not only shared his landscaping expertise but also engaged with professional associations to further the advancements in landscaping and arboriculture. In Massachusetts, he served with the Arborist Association and other regional landscaping boards, influencing policy and practice within the industry.

His colleague Fred Pendleton noted Cook’s extensive knowledge, ranging from shade-resistant plants to the most effective treatments for plant diseases, showcasing Roger's vast understanding and his eagerness to share it.

Cook’s memorabilia, notably his sayings and practical advice, continue to inspire both amateur and professional landscapers and will live on as a vital part of his legacy.

Lessons To Learn

There are many takeaways for fans and followers of Cook's work over the decades.

1. Health Awareness: Even for those continuously in the public eye, personal health must come first. Cook’s decision to step back highlights the necessity of prioritizing health over occupational demands.
2. Environmental Advocacy: The simple act of planting a tree as requested in his obituary reflects how individual actions can contribute to broader environmental health, a testament to Cook’s lifelong commitment.
3. Educational Impact: Through education, one individual can profoundly affect millions, as evidenced by Cook’s decades-long influence on viewers who learned to improve their living spaces and respect nature.

Why This Story Matters

The life and career of Roger Cook serve as an influential chapter in the intersection of media, education, and environmental advocacy. His contributions reach beyond television and into the fabric of community and personal responsibility, underscoring the importance of informed and actionable advice in improving everyday living environments.

In summary, Roger Cook’s death marks the end of an era for This Old House and its audience. His legacy, encapsulated in numerous projects, countless lessons, and a myriad of planted trees, stands as a lasting tribute to a life dedicated to the betterment of homes and environments across America.