John Francis Cook, 66, a lifelong resident of Northeast Kansas City, MO, passed away at his home on March 3, 2020, from heart complications. Visitation will be 4-6 p.m. with a Memorial Mass beginning at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 5106 St. John Ave., Kansas City, MO 64123.

John was born on August 22, 1953, the eldest of five children born to Rose (Falco) Cook and the late William James Cook.  He was the first grandchild of the late John and Sadie (Pisciotta) Falco on his mother's side and his paternal grandparents were the late Francis and Mary (Coyne) Cook.

John worked for Falco's Gas, Tow & Salvage business alongside his grandfather John, and his uncles Carl (Joann) and Frank Falco, cousin Fred Ross, Jr., cousin  John Falco, and longtime family friend, Billy Wallace.  John also worked at Mondo's Bar. His last employment was at Thoroughbred Ford where he met many a good friend, especially Jerry who was there by his side to the end.

John was surrounded by love and music growing up as both parents were heavily active in the church and choir.  At Holy Cross he was an altar boy and in the youth choir.  John played drums, guitar and piano. He had a four-piece band in high school where he was the drummer.  He attended Holy Cross grade school and De La Salle High school.  His love for sports began early as he played 3 & 2 baseball, basketball at Holy Cross, and football for De La Salle.  He also played overhand softball for the I League at Maple Park.

John and Rosetta Tarantino had his only child in 1974, Gina Marie.  They were married for five years.  John passed on his love of sports and music to his daughter by bringing her to Royals, Chiefs, and KC Kings Games, and to many concerts.  Gina later gave him his only grandson Chazz, who loved his BBQ.  John could have opened a restaurant, as he was foodie.  He loved a great meal.  John could be found on any weekend summer day manning the grill and making his own BBQ sauce, all while enjoying a cold beer by the pool with family and friends, listening to Motown and R&B.

John didn't know a stranger.  He spent much of his time socializing with friends and was always the life of the party.  He had an infectious smile and charisma.  John lived everyday like it was his last, until in more recent years when many illnesses, including heart and lung complications, slowed him down until his death on March 3rd.

Also surviving John are his mother, Rose S. Cook; his sisters and brothers:  Teresa Hawkins (Steve), Sandi Martin, Bill Cook, Jr. (Cindy),  and Anthony Cook (Angela); along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Gina and Chazz extend many thanks for all of the love and support shown through this tough time.

The Family would also like to thank John's Aunt Rosalie (Falco) Ross, her husband Fred, and their entire family for their continued love and support.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com