Maurice Paul Cook, age 69, of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on December 25, 2025.
Morry was born on November 18, 1956, in St. Paul, Minnesota. He spent his life rooted in the communities of St. Paul and later Inver Grove Heights, places that shaped him and where he built a life centered on hard work, family, and service to others. He was a graduate of Cretin High School (1974) and attended St. John’s University (1978).
Morry worked as a skilled bricklayer, a trade that reflected his strong work ethic and pride in craftsmanship. Beyond his profession, he devoted many years to serving as a Boy Scout Leader and Scout Master, where he made a lasting impact on countless young lives. Teaching values, outdoor skills, and responsibility was a role he took to heart, and he was deeply proud of his involvement with the Boy Scouts.
As an outdoorsman, Morry found joy in fishing, hunting, shooting, and camping with his lifelong friends and family. He loved traveling the country in his Airstream trailer, finding adventure and joy in every family trip. Off the road, he was an avid reader and lifelong learner. These passions brought him peace, purpose, and memories made with those he loved most.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Jeanette Marie Cook.
Morry is survived by his loving wife, Debra Cook; his children, Ben Cook (Lucia Ruff-Berganza), Emily Welbig (Nate), and Dan Cook (Allie Machacek); his cherished grandchildren, Rafael, Nico, Lewis, Samuel, Malia, and Audra; his father, Roger Cook and his wife, Janette; his siblings, Bridgette Startz (Robert), Gretchen Cook, and Christopher Cook (Howard Bell). He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a deeply loving grandfather whose presence will be missed beyond measure.
Morry will be remembered for his steady presence, generous spirit, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. His legacy lives on through the wisdom he shared, the values he passed down, and the bricks he laid throughout the Twin Cities.
Visitation is Thursday, January 1, 2026 at Roberts Funeral Home at 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove heights, MN from 3:00 to 6:00 PM with a rosary at 5:30 PM. A Memorial Mass will be Friday, January 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM with a visitation one hour prior to the Mass at the Church of St. Joseph, 1154 Seminole Ave, West St. Paul, MN 55118. Mass will also be livestreamed here: https://sjwsp.org/livestream-archives A luncheon will follow the service at the church. Internment is at Resurrection Cemetery, 2101 Lexington Ave South, Mendota Heights, MN 55120.
In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Dakota County Library system.