Basil (Buddy) John Cook Jr., formerly of Massena

MASSENA -- Port Orange, FL: Basil (Buddy) John Cook Jr. was born in Rochester, NY, the son of Basil John Cook and Freida Gauthier.

Family members who continue to carry on his lasting memory include his daughter,  Christine Ellis, son,  Richard Jones, daughter,  Holly Thomas, daughter,  Theresa (Tracy) Herne, son,  Victor Angus Jacobs, daughter, Laura (Laurie) Scotti. He leaves behind many grandchildren, nieces and nephews who were the light of his world.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents,  Basil J. Cook, Sr. and Frieda Gauthier, as well as his son,  Basil III, daughter,  Theresa (Tess), and his two brothers,  Arthur (Chubby) and Ernie.

Growing up in Northern New York, he was part of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York.

Basil worked on his mother and father’s fishing camp, taking customers up and down the St. Lawrence River with his brothers.

He joined the military at an early age when he enlisted in the Navy. After completing his time in the Navy, he began work as an iron worker in Utica, New York.

From there, he would go on to build many successful businesses near his home town of Massena, New York, including a truck stop, sporting goods store and the Mohawk Bingo Palace.

Buddy was a true friend to so many people. As a lifelong member of the Shriners, he loved volunteering and giving back to children in need.

He also volunteered for Halifax Hospital for many years. He woke up early to drive the courtesy cart from the parking lot to the main building.

He loved helping people, if he could do something for you he would and that is what gave him joy life.

Buddy had a love for sports, whether it was owning and racing horses in Upstate New York, bowling, boating, driving fast cars, as he loved competing.

He had a love for golf and was a member at Pelican Bay Golf Club for many years where he made countless friends and colleagues.

Buddy was an amazing father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, and father-in-law.

His guidance and wisdom from his long talks will forever be with those he loved.