Dr. Bill Cook of Norwich and formerly Brampton, Ont., passed away on Feb. 15, 2025 while residing at Saint Luke’s Place in Cambridge Ont. at the age of 85. He died peacefully in his sleep after his battle with Lewy Body Dementia.
Bill was born in Toronto on June 23, 1939. He was predeceased by his parents, David and Elizabeth Cook and older brother David (Kay) Cook. He is survived by his older sister Arline (Cook) Giffin.
Bill married Lynda “Ferg” Ferguson in 1963. They were always together on the road. Whether that was in a barn, day-tripping across Ontario or exploring the world. They raised their four children (Will, Rob, Donna and Amanda) in Brampton and later in Norwich.
Bill graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1964. Starting as a vet to racing stables, he went on to include surgery, herd health and horse reproduction during the latter 40 years of his career. Over his nearly 60 years of veterinary study and practice, he shared that knowledge with horse owners, trainers and fellow veterinarians.
He is survived by wife Lynda, sons Will and Rob (Julian Wilson), daughters Donna (Scott) Sweazey and Amanda (Brian) Sproule, and grandchildren Abigail and Oscar Sweazey and Jake and Dan Sproule. He will be remembered by his extended family as well as friends, clients and horse communities.
Bill will also be joining a kennel of dogs and cats, and aquariums of fishes that he cared for in his life outside of his vet work.
Thank you to the staff of Saint Luke’s Place in Cambridge who provided long term care since the fall of 2022. You are much appreciated.
Bill will be cremated. As per his wishes, in lieu of a visitation or funeral service, donations can be made to Saint Luke’s Place in Cambridge.
Condolences, acknowledgements can be sent to [email protected].
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Bill Cook.