Donald ("Don") Keith Cook, age 88 of Bradenton, formerly of Holmdel, NJ died on June 15th,, 2025 after a short illness. Don was an officer in the United States Air Force where he served as a T-37 flight instructor. After his military career, he was a commercial airline pilot for Trans World Airlines for 28 years.
A lover of football, he was a high school football referee in Monmouth County NJ for over 10 years. He was also an avid boater and was an active member of the Raritan Bay Power Squadron (United States Power Squadrons) where he served as Chairman and Commander. After moving to Bradenton in 2006, he became a member of the Manatee Sail and Power Squadron, also serving as Commander and Chair of the Education Committee. Later in life Don learned to play the organ and enjoyed many activities and concerts with the Fletcher musical group.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Donald James and Evelyn Cook of Newark, New York, and his wife Paula of 50 years. He is survived by his children, Suzanne Paldino (Anthony) and Sandra Griscom (Dan), six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Thursday, June 26th from 10:00 to 11:00 am with service to follow at Toale Brothers Funeral Home 912 53rd Ave West, Bradenton. A military burial will be held at Sarasota Memorial Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St Vincent De Paul Society, Bradenton. https://ssvpusa.org
