In Memory of Dr. Robert “Bob” Cook
In late September 2017, USCA and the Greater Chicago Schutzhund Club lost Dr. Robert Cook (simply Dr. Bob to most), a cherished member of our IPO family. Dr. Bob started in schutzhund in the early 80’s at OG Wisconsin, but nationally most know him for campaigning Akki vom Haus Ehrenreich IPO3 Kkl1, including placing 5th at the 2011 USA GSD Nationals.
Many competitors would find the time to watch Akki, a many time helper’s favorite dog, but even more would seek out Dr. Bob to chat about the sport he loved and his many passions outside IPO. He was a respected surgeon and businessman, pilot, triathlete, and also competed in field trials with his prize winning English Pointers. His fascinating love of Falconry eventually brought him back to IPO. He flew birds with his good friend Frank Metallo, and eventually reconnected with IPO through Frank’s son Ray Metallo, along with other members of Greater Chicago and O.G. Edgerton’s Rolando Salvador.
Dr. Bob’s passion for learning, training animals, and competition was inspiring and he embraced those with similar dedication and interests. At the WDC in 2012, Dr. Bob was observed sitting alone with a cup of coffee on the wet bleachers of a near empty stadium at 7 a.m. on a Sunday to support and mentor a young Dominic Scarberry with Bo. UCLA’s John Wooden said the true test of a man’s character is what he does when no one is watching. That morning, as always, Dr. Bob was a true sportsman and gentlemen.
I knew Dr. Bob as a friend and fellow competitor – he was instrumental in my campaign to become your President. His words were thoughtful and inspiring and he will be profoundly missed. We send our deepest sympathy to his family, friends, club, associates, and colleagues.
