The esteemed military historian, Tim Cook, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the age of 54. His death was announced by the Canadian War Museum where he served as chief historian,
In 2022, Cook, Chief Historian and Director of Research at the Canadian War Museum, was a guest speaker at Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre and, again in 2023, where he brought to light an in-depth look at Canada’s significant contributions during the Invasion of Sicily in World War II.
His best-selling books have won multiple awards, including three Ottawa Book prizes for Literary Non-Fiction and two C.P. Stacey Awards for the best book in Canadian military history. In 2008, he won the J.W. Dafoe Prize for ‘At the Sharp End’ and again in 2018 for
‘Vimy: The Battle and the Legend’. ‘Shock Troops’ also won the 2009 Charles Taylor Prize for Literary Non-Fiction. Cook is a frequent commentator in the media, and a member of the Royal Society of Canada and the Order of Canada. ‘Lifesavers and Body Snatchers: Medical Care and the Struggle for Survival in the Great War’ was a work he discussed at the Museum.
Cook was born in Kingston, Ontario, and raised in Ottawa. His parents are Terry Cook, a noted archivist, and Sharon Anne Cook, a history professor and author. He studied history at Trent University in Peterborough, and later obtained a master’s degree at the Royal Military College of Canada and a doctorate at the University of New South Wales. (Wikipedia)
“Tim Cook’s legacy is immense and multifaceted. His work at the Canadian War Museum, his numerous award-winning books, and his commitment to public education have profoundly shaped our understanding of Canadian military history. He didn’t just interpret history; he brought it to life, ensuring that the sacrifices and experiences of generations wouldn’t be forgotten.
His passion wasn’t confined to academic circles; he made history relevant for everyone. He wanted people to understand, and he wasn’t going to stop until they did. The impact of Tim Cook’s cause of death will resonate for years to come, as students, researchers, and the general public continue to draw from his vast body of work.
Many will look to his books and exhibitions as a guiding light. Memorial funds or charitable requests haven’t been announced yet, but his family and the Canadian War Museum will likely provide such details when appropriate. For now, we reflect on a man who truly dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and truth. He’ll be deeply missed, but his influence will undeniably endure.” (obitspot.org)
