Gerry Cook

Gerry Cook grew up in the rural foothills of the North Cascades and fell in in love early with the high country. After his bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Washington State University, Gerry returned to Marblemount for summer work in the North Cascades, first with the U.S. Forest Service and later as a National Park Service fire lookout. He developed skills in construction and design, and helped to establish many of the architectural themes used in shelters, boardwalks, and installations across North Cascades National Park.

Gerry has been on the Institute’s board for many years, and he serves on the Program Evaluation and Assessment Committee. He has been greatly inspired by the Institute’s ability to foster stewardship in people of all ages, color and orientation through exposure to wilderness.

Now retired after 44 years of public service in the North Cascades, Gerry lives in the house he built in Marblemount as a young gallery owner and potter. While he craves the snow and the possibility of venturing out on his skis, Gerry will happily settle for a hike or a bike ride.