Brethren, it is with deep sadness that I have to report the very sad passing of Worshipful Brother Peter Cook, at his home last night.
Peter was a well known and much loved and respected Hexham Freemason and he will be missed by us all.
Initiated into Hexham Priory Lodge No 6318 in 1980, Peter acted as Master of the Lodge on no fewer than three occasions and was the Lodge Chaplain at the time of his death.
He was exalted in the Royal Arch in Albert Edward Chapter No 1557 in 1982 and was its First Principal in 2004.
In consequence of his service to masonry he was appointed to Past Provincial Assistant Grand Registrar in 1999 before being promoted to Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden in 2007.
In Provincial Grand Chapter he was appointed to Past Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies in 2009, before promotion to Past Provincial Assistant Grand Sojourner in 2014 and further promotion to Past Provincial Grand Sword Bearer just last year.
He was a member of Hexham Mark Lodge No 1161 for 33 years and last year was honoured by appointment to Past Assistant Grand Sword Bearer in the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons.
In the Knight Templar Order, Peter was a member of St Wilfred of Hexham Preceptory No 461 and the Preceptory of Tutelage No 633. For the last eleven of his almost thirty years membership of that Order, Peter held Acting Provincial rank, as Provincial Deputy Marshal and then as Provincial Marshal from 2015.
In all his masonic offices he will be remembered for his quiet efficiency, delivered in a courteous manner that got the job done effectively and with a minimum of fuss. Sadly, his later years were blighted by ill health, necessitating quite major surgery some years ago and the need for further treatment in recent months, all of which he bore with great fortitude and quiet stoicism.
He died peacefully, at home, in the bosom of his loving family, and we offer our deepest condolences to them and to all who knew, and who will miss, him.
Peter, his family and friends will remain foremost in our thoughts and prayers.
Peter Cooks funeral is now confirmed to take place on Thursday 10th December 2020 at 11:00 am at Hexham Abbey, and thereafter at 1230 pm at the West Road Crematorium.
Please note that, due to current restrictions, only a limited number of mourners may be in attendance, however, anyone wishing to pay their respects the cortege will depart Hexham Abbey at 11:30 am.
On a slightly happier note the Book of Remembrance is now live and can be viewed at https://northumberlandkt.com/?page_id=1888
Donations in Peters memory can be made to MacMillan Cancer Support or Tyneside Hospice at Home.