Hi, my name is John McCaul, I am privileged to state that Mark Cook was a good friend of mine. All who knew Mark knew what a kind hearted person he was, always giving so much to those who needed help the most. Unfortunately, Mark passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at the age of 57.

I am starting this GoFundMe Campaign to assist Mark's family with the cost of funeral expenses during this difficult period in their life. The goal is to raise enough funds to cover his arrangements, with any excess being donated to Matthew Mission, which Mark helped create.

Please see his full obituary and service information below. Mark seldom asked for anything in return while helping others. I believe we, as a community, should give back to Mark as he has gave so much to us. Please join me in the effort to make this a success.

Thanks, John McCaul

(Obituary and Service Info Below)

Mark R. Cook, age 57, of Lakeville, formerly of Middleboro, passed away surrounded by the love, comfort, and care of his family on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at Morton Hospital in Taunton.

Born in Middleboro, he was the son of the late Kenneth Cook and Barbara (Pierce) Ventura. Mark grew up in Middleboro and graduated from Middleboro High School with the Class of 1985.

A kind and caring man with a heart of gold, Mark was well known throughout the Taunton area for his generous and altruistic contributions. He was active with the American Red Cross, helping as a member of the Disaster Action Team. From offering a shoulder to cry on, to meeting any immediate needs for shelter or supplies, to connecting people with long term recovery services, Mark ensured that families he assisted did not have to face tough times alone.

One of Mark’s proudest accomplishments was that of being a founding member of the Matthew Mission Food Pantry. The Matthew Mission opened in 2016, providing food and respite to homeless individuals. In 2021, the Mission transitioned into a food pantry to address local food insecurity, working in partnership with First Parish Church in Taunton. Mark had the yearn to fight hunger with an emphasis on personal dignity for all who resided in the surrounding Taunton area.

In his spare time, Mark enjoyed playing the slot machines at Foxwoods Casino and going for road trips with his sister all throughout the Northeast. His caring nature did not only apply to people, as he had a special place in his heart for any animal; he went out of his way often, to help animals in need.

Mark is survived by his proud and cherished friend and sister: Terri Avilla and her husband Gus; his nephews: Shane, Timothy, and Devon Avilla; his nieces: Rebekah Carmichael and Megan Bassett; his uncle: Jerry Pierce; his aunt: Helen Carmichael; and also numerous friends and extended family members.

In addition to his parents, Mark is preceded in passing by his sister: Marylouise Hurd.

Mark’s Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at 4:00pm in First Parish Church in Taunton, 76 Church Green, Taunton, MA

For expressions of sympathy, to sign an online guestbook or to light a memorial candle, visit Silva Funeral Home