Roger Cook

From Sunflowers to Sunset: Roger Cook of 'This Old House' Bids Farewell!

Roger Cook, the beloved landscaper from 'This Old House', has left us, but his green thumb will forever grow in our hearts. 🌿💔

Roger Cook, the cherished landscaper known for his transformative work on PBS's long-running series "This Old House," passed away on August 21 at the age of 70 after battling an extended illness. Over his nearly 40-year tenure with the show, Cook became a household name, offering eco-friendly garden tips, landscaping solutions, and heartfelt advice to homeowners across America. His charismatic personality shined through each episode, making viewers feel as if they were chatting with an old friend about their backyard blooming adventures.

Cook's journey on "This Old House" began at the dawn of the show in 1982, when he first joined as a landscape contractor. With each project, he not only paved the way for lush lawns and stunning gardens but also grounded the show in an authenticity that resonated with fans. Colleagues and fans alike remember him as a down-to-earth guiding light who embraced his down-and-dirty passion for all things horticultural — never pretending to be anything other than his true self. According to his friends, he had a knack for solving problems with dirt, plants, and a sly sense of humor, often saying, "There are no bad gardeners, only bad plants!"

In addition to his impressive skills, Roger Cook was also known for his love of teaching others about the art of landscaping. His sage advice and patient manner inspired countless DIY enthusiasts to dig into their own gardening projects. "You don’t need a green thumb to grow a garden; just a little patience and plenty of mulch!" he often remarked, demonstrating his passion for making gardening accessible to all. His teachings not only enriched the show's legacy but also planted seeds of knowledge that blossomed in gardens across the country.

Roger's impact on the home improvement world will certainly be felt for years to come. As fans reflect on his legacy, it's clear that Cook's down-to-earth approach and dedication to gardening will live on in the lush landscapes he helped create. Amid the sorrow of his passing, it's heartening to know that the spirit of his green thumb will forever nurture the plants — and happiness — in our backyards.

Fun Fact: Roger Cook played an instrumental role in introducing sustainable landscaping techniques to the mainstream audience long before they became a hot trend! Additionally, did you know that "This Old House" has been on air for over four decades? That's a lot of weed pulling and flower planting!