Matthew Robert Cook Jr.

On Wednesday, December 31, 2025, Matthew Robert Cook, Jr., beloved companion, son, father, brother, and friend, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 39.

Matt was born on May 16, 1986, in Toledo, Ohio, to Matthew and Lisa Cook. In 2024, he met and fell in love with Tory Sevitz, and in January 2025, they were blessed by the birth of their wonderful son, Kellan Matthew. Together, they poured endless love, laughter, and joy into raising him. Matt took Kellan everywhere with him - doting on him, teaching him, and sharing life’s everyday adventures side by side.

Matt attended Carmel Schools and Perrysburg Schools and spent several years being homeschooled. He was active in student life at Westgate Chapel, playing guitar on the Student Ministries Worship Team. Later, he earned a degree in Criminal Justice from Owens Community College. After working at FedEx for a short time, Matt entered the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy. While awaiting his academy start date, he worked with high school youth at church, mentoring young men in their faith and leading the Student Ministry Worship Team.

During his time with the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Matt received numerous commendations and awards, including the distinguished honor of being named Trooper of the Year in both 2016 and 2020, He was promoted to Sergeant in April of 2024.

His calm and steady nature, kindness and compassion earned him trust and respect from his fellow officers and made a lasting impression on all who knew him, he cared deeply for people and the community he served. He served them well.

Matt loved his home in the countryside west of Findlay. He could often be found outdoors, working on his property, bird watching, feeding wildlife or taking in strays. He always had his loyal dog, Coby, by his side. He also loved playing his guitar and making music. Matt truly loved the simple joys of life.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Jack and Kathy Cook, and grandfather Jack Gates. He is survived by his grandmother Lois Gates; his beloved Tory Sevitz; his cherished son Kellan Matthew; his parents Matthew Sr. and Lisa Cook; his siblings Tyler (Courtney) Cook, Jonah (Meggan) Cook, and Lacey Cook (fiancé Collin); and fourteen beloved cousins (3 preceded in death). Matt was adored by his nieces and nephew, and he adored them just as much.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Gateway Church, 9555 County Road 9, Findlay, Ohio.

A private viewing for family and close friends will take place at the church on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 4:00–8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Responders Bridge, https://firstrespondersbridge.org/.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.kirkpatrickbehnke.com

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