Barbara A. (Witzke) Cook- age 72, a forty-six year resident of Cohasset, died on February 12, 2012.

She was born in New Britain, CT. on March 10, 1939, the daughter of Edmund and Anne Witzke. After attending New Britain schools, she graduated from Bay Path College. Barbara's first job after college was with Stanley Works in New Britain. She met Kenneth B. Cook at Stanley and they were married in 1960. Their first home was in Windsor, CT. Their two children Peter L. Cook and Sarah E. Cook were born while they lived there.

In 1966, Ken took a job on the South Shore and the family moved to Cohasset. Barbara took an active role in civic affairs, particularly the League of Women Voters, serving in several voluntary leadership positions. In the 1970's, she became interested in the South Shore Conservatory of Music, where Peter was a student. Barbara enjoyed working as a volunteer on several Conservatory committees, and later became an employee, serving as Registrar.

One of Barbara's principal interests during all of her years in Cohasset was St. Stephen's Episcopal Church. She was especially active in the Altar Guild and was its Directress in the 1980's. Another St. Stephen's activity that she enjoyed was the Christmas Fair and all its facets. For three years, she was chairman of the Book segment. Other charity involvement included Meals on Wheels and the Cohasset Food Pantry.

All the family members were active in the Cohasset Yacht Club for all their years in Cohasset. Barbara frequently was part of the crew on various Cook racing boats. She also participated in CYC cruises to Maine and Cape Cod. One of her favorite cruises was in the San Juan Islands in Washington and British Columbia.

Barbara leaves Ken, her husband of 51 years, her son, Peter of Boston, her daughter, Sarah "Sally" Hardwick of Seattle, WA., son in law, Jeffrey H. Hardwick, and her granddaughter, Emily A. Hardwick.

A Memorial Service will be held at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 3 pm. Immediately following the service will be a committal in the Memorial Garden at the Church. All friends are welcome to attend the memorial service, and then an informal gathering in the church's Walton Rogers Hall. Gifts in Barbara's memory may be made to the St. Stephens's Episcopal Church or to a charity of one's choice

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