Richard Carl Lee Cook

My heart and soul are so very heavy for Richard’s family. Grief is the hardest, never ending emotional cycle to live with. I hope you all find comfort and his presence in all of these memories. Richard was a part of my story 30 years ago! Although the edges of those pages are a little bit faded they are still very vivid. I remember a 16 year old Richard with chocolate and peanut butter in his braces after eating a Reese’s cup and attempting to rinse it down with Dr. Pepper. The scent of way too much CK one on his denim trench coat and the LA looks gel that slicked back the skater style hair he sported. Even 30 years ago he found a way to make everything into a joke, even making his mom blush with some of them just for the reaction of anyone that thought it was funny, or even better if they didn’t think it was funny. Even 30 years ago he was an artist. I remember him painting a mural on his bedroom wall of a handgun with some other dark shadows of faces and off the wall expressions or quotes he thought of. The landlord made him paint over it. Just like later in his life he had a new canvas with every new tattoo. Ironic. I never got around to getting a tattoo on my skin, but Richard left a tattoo in my book. I hope you all remember energy cannot be destroyed. It’s just changed into a new form, much like the blank canvas. Richard always had strong energy. My thoughts are with you all.
-Jill (Daniel) Stanley

It was a pleasure knowing you and talking to you at various events and conventions and was happy to come get a tattoo from the studio when you first opened up to show my support from one owner/artist to another. My you rest easy brother and prayers to your friends, family and loved ones.

I graduated from Seneca East with Richard. He lit up the room with his laughter, quick witedness, sense of humor, and was a great friend to all. Rest in Peace Richard you have inspired me and so many others, and will never be forgotten as you have left an imprint on my heart.
Much love to the Richard Cook Family

Well Rich I don't know if my goodbye will fill the void I feel of your journey. All I know is thanks for the moments we had together, a true friend in our family . May you rest in peace and may your spirit be fulfilled knowing you were a wonderful person in our lifes. Memories are gifts we hold on to and those with you I will cherish.

I’ve been thinking about all the memories I have of Rich and they all seem to involve laughter and joy. He was for sure the quickest wit and the best storyteller. He brought joy in to the shop even on the days he was struggling physically. And I will never forget him . Rest in peace my friend.

Richard was my one and only tattoo artist. Once I was tattooed by him I could never go to anyone else. He was the nicest guy around and turned me on to some killer bands. He will be forever missed by me. So thankful for the 3 tattoos he put on me and for just knowing him. He was a master artist and always made you feel so welcomed. Prayers to his wife and kids and extended family and friends. He was truly a rockstar! RIP my friend.