Lewis John "Bull" Cook
April 20, 1945 to July 31, 2026
Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lewis John “Bull” Cook on July 31st, 2026. John was born on April 20th, 1945 on the South Side of St. John’s. The second of three children. John and his siblings – Doug and Janet grew up in a loving household where the importance of family was instilled in them, something he carried with him through his entire life. He attended Bishop Feild College, speaking fondly of friendships and memories long after his school years ended. Always a proud Feildian, he took every opportunity to sing the college song alongside his brother, Doug.
John had a passion for the St. John’s community. He was a quiet advocate for many causes close to his heart but his active participation as a charter member of the Canadian Progress Club of St. John’s played a significant role in his life. John had many exciting adventures shared with friends over the years. One he particularly reminisced about was attending the 1972 Summit Series in Moscow.
Although John had many business ventures throughout his life, his career began at Mitchell Agencies as a young man. He travelled across the province, selling items to groceries stores and shops. He later spoke about this period of his life on the road fondly. A frequent visitor to Bonavista, he would often quip the drive out would include “two spares and three flats.” In 1972, the Cook family opened Big Ben’s Pub and the rest is history. The bar business allowed John’s greatest gift to shine: his love for people. From that point on he opened numerous bars and restaurants, most notably the Sundance Saloon. John loved his work, especially the people he met along the way. He treated everyone who walked through the doors with the utmost respect, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.
Even more than work, John loved his family. He cherished his siblings and is a true product of his parents’ love. He met Lisa in 1989, and they married in 1993. They welcomed their first child, Lewis, in 1994, with Sarah arriving soon after. He never missed an opportunity to take his family on countless adventures and was a constant support in everything they did; dance recitals, concerts, tennis tournaments, and much more, experiencing life alongside his wife and children was his greatest joy.
John is predeceased by his adoring parents – Lewis and Phyllis Cook.
Leaving to mourn with precious memories, his beloved wife and partner of 37 years – Lisa; his two children – Lewis (Erin) and Sarah (Josh); his siblings – Doug (Nancy) and Janet (Dave); the James family, and his nieces and nephews he cared for deeply.
John will be missed by so many. However, his legacy will extend far beyond his passing. Friendships made, lives impacted, and enduring memories carried on by his friends and family.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of St. Patrick’s Mercy Home and the Southwest wing of Pleasantview Towers for their kind and compassionate care.
Public Visitation will take place from Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road, St. John’s, NL on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026 from 2:00-4:00PM and 5:00-8:00PM. Reverend Gail Dick will conduct the Funeral Service from The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 16 Church Hill, St. John’s, NL on Thursday, August 6th, 2026 at 2:00PM. Interment to follow at the Forest Road Anglican Cemetery. The family invites you to raise a glass and celebrate John’s life at Big Ben’s Pub following the funeral service at 5pm on August 6th, 2026.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vera Perlin Society or the Alzheimer’s Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on August 5, 2026
5-8 p.m. on August 5, 2026
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
2:00pm, Thursday August 6th
The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Bull, family, and friends,
Many fine memories.
Most importantly, all that you did for everyone else!
Rest in peace…
Lisa, my sincere condolences to you and your family on your loss. I will have a good thought for you, and a smile for the times I spent with Bull.
David Dobbin
Armillac, France
My sincere condolences to John’s family. I met John in my role of Fire Prevention Officer with the SJRFD.
He was always courteous and professional
We would always have a chat about his soccer days and his visits to the Burin Peninsula.
RIP Bull
Gary Douglas Chilliwack BC
Lisa, Lewis and Sarah
Unfortunately we are away and we share our condolences digitally.
The Davis family is incredibly saddened by your loss.
I remember when @ 17 years of age, (60 now) I just got my car license and he would arrive at the yacht club and Blair and I, would clean and shine his BMW 633 and he would say take it for the day. I think Blair and I put more miles on it Every summer on a Saturday than he did every year! He also hosted us for my 19th birthday at Peppers, Our Daughters, both Sarah’s , connected on summer vacations , built friendships like her dad; and of course Lewis he was so proud because of 1st academy accolades and amazing son to dad. John was a business leader, an amazing and loving Dad and father, and someone the province of Nl and more importantly Lisa,Lewis and Sarah can be soo proud to call dad.
Our deepest condolences,
Brad, Jane, Sarah and Amanda Davis
I’ll always remember seeing John, Doug and his father visit us on many Boxing Days in our home. They were great neighbors and friends.
My condolences to the family on such a huge loss, as Bull was one of a kind.
Robert and Susan LeDrew
One of the hundreds who worked with John, I was blessed that nearly twenty years on from our last encounter that he not only recognize by speaking my name but jokingly chastised me for passing without saying hello. He was off loading beer for the Sundance. I thanked him for remembering and for the kindness to interact as I passed by on New Gower. My Chicago friend walking with me was impressed by the brief but genuine and real exchange. Now living in Victoria BC, I fondly recall my time at Barristers and Uncle Albert’s. Blessing to you John.
Lisa, Lewis and Sarah,
I was so sorry to hear of Bull’s passing. Forty years of friendship gave me a front-row seat to that magic he carried into every room – Ben’s, the Sundance, or just a chat on the street, it made no difference. He had a wonderful gift for making people feel like the most important person in his day. Bull’s presence permeated so many circles in this city, and it will be felt in his absence just as strongly as it was in his life.
Lisa, Lewis & Sarah, our thoughts are with you. Rest easy, old friend.
Lisa & Family(
My condolences on Bull’s passing. He was an unique gentleman, lots of fun and heart of gold. I have many great memories of Bull and I know all the wonderful memories you shared will be a comfort always.
Rest In Peace Bull
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to all the Cook family on the passing of John. He and my late husband, Boyd Summers were best friends since childhood. He was a friend of the whole Summers family. Bull visited our home in Kelligrews on numerous occasions, sometimes on his bike, or his latest car. His visit would be the highlight of our day as he and Boyd reminisced about the old school days and their antics over the years.
One of our favourite get-togethers was a trip to Brigus during the Blueberry Festival The music and camaraderie were second to none.
Thinking of all the family at this sad time….he was so proud of you all.
Elaine Summers
Lisa so sorry to read of John’s passing,I’m very grateful that we got to meet you @PVT ,deepest condolences to you and your family at this sad time,may his gentle soul rest in peace.. Sincerely Lance & Donna Sparkes.
To Doug and all the Cook family … Marie and I are so very sorry to hear of Bull’s passing. He was an amazing guy … always so pleasent and vibrant and ready for whatever the next chapter in life would bring. He was a significant contributor to his community and the province and will be greatly missed. We extend our most sincere condolences to the family.
Dear Lisa, Sarah and Lewis,
We are deeply sorry for the loss of your John. Losing someone close to you causes pain for which there are no words.
Our deepest sympathy.
Anna, Olga, Piotr and Conrad Trela
Doug and family,
Sorry to hear of John”s passing.. I am glad I was able to have him as a friend. On my visits back home I would drop in at the Sundance for a visit.and a chat.. My thoughts are with and your family at this sad time.
Cyril Spurrell
Calgary
Lisa, Lewis, Sara, Doug and family. I knew John for over 65 years – from BFC to Ben’s to the Sundance Saloon (where I met my wife!!). Also, Poplar Avenue and Hawthorne Place.. Despite his nickname John was never a bully – always a smile and friendly chat. Condolences,
Tim and Dianne Anderson
Peter and I send our sincere condolences to the Cook family, and especially Doug, on the loss of his beloved brother. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this very sad and difficult time. God bless.. Peter Stacey and Jean Edwards Stacey
My sincere condolences go out to the Cook family. I remember Bull as a young girl when he first got his motor cycle and then his snazzy cars. Bull was liked by everyone as he was such a likeable individual.
May his gentle soul now rest in peace
My condolences go out to the Cook family. I remember Bull from many years ago, his first motor cycle, his first snazzy car and he was such a mild individual who was liked by everyone.
May Bulls soul now rest in peace.
Dorothy Pound Rideout
..
Lisa, Lewis, Sarah and the Cook Family,
We were very saddened to hear of Bull’s passing. Bull was always friendly, welcoming and so vibrant. Treasure your many wonderful memories and may you find comfort in each other during those difficult days.
Rest easy Bull
Dear Lewis and Sarah,
I am so very sad to hear about your father‘s passing. I was lucky enough to have met him during my younger years through Wendy. I remember him as friendly, funny and always busy making something happen. It wasn’t until years later, when I taught you both at Bishop Feild Elementary, did I really get an idea of who he was. Your dad was a wonderful father who was involved in everything single thing you two did. He delighted in your school work, always excitedly asking if he could take it home when I wanted to put up for display. I had to promise he could keep it later. He was so proud of you both each and every day, always running back in for an extra hug or kiss good bye. He was a massive support to our school on both large and smaller scales. From organizing large fundraisers with your mom to buying every first grader an ice cream because I couldn’t make change! I heard him sing “Dear Old College” many times, both in our auditorium wearing an BFC tie, ant Wendy’s wedding or just around the pool deck. Once a Feildian, Always a Feildian” will always ring true for John “Bull” Cook. May you and your mother share his memory all the days of your lives and know that grief is the price of a life well loved.
Lori Walsh (Madame Roach)
To the dearest of peoples Lisa, Lewis, and Sarah sending you love, light, and peace during the mourning and celebration of a fond man in your lives.
Tender Loving Warm Heartfelt Sympathy 💐 And Condolences 💐
Cherish The Beautiful Memories.
It was an high honour and privilege to care for Bull, he was my BUDDY’
I loved to see his big smile and those beautiful eyes light up as i talked to him about Big Ben’s and the downtown scene.
May he now rest.
Sincerely
Chris G. Fudge
My condolences to the Cook family on Bull’s passing. ! I opened a bar across the street from the Sundance when it was the busiest most happening place east of Montreal presided over by Bull ! My fondest memories are of the the banter back and forth between a cocky kid from around the Bay and an icon of the bar industry. I never forget I bought a old bar from one of his former clubs Uncle Alberts and reassembled it across from the Sundance and weeks after we finished he strolled in with a piece off the bar he had repurposed at home and said here young fella you may as well finish the job. A simple act of kindest that a young bay men so appreciated and never forgot. Bull was a giant in our industry ! God bless you all and may Bull Rip! Wayne , Rose and Sean Kelly
Lisa, Lewis and Sarah,
So sorry to learn of John’s death. I am sure you are all heartbroken. He was a very kind, generous and friendly neighbour back in the 90s on Poplar Avenue and always a joy to run into and chat.
Take care of each at this difficult time.
Heather Hanrahan, Bill Goulding and Katie, David and Margaret
Lisa, Lewis and Sarah
My condolences to you and your family. My thoughts are with you. And your family.
Margot Carnell
Lisa and Family,
Sorry to hear of Bull’s passing, it was a pleasure for me to have known him over many years, my last conversation with him was pleasant!
I am sure that you will hear many fond memories of him as you Celebrate his Life with Family and Friends in the coming days
Blessings,
Doug Haynes
Lisa –Lewis –Sarah
The outpouring of condolences and tributes to you and your family as well as to Doug and his family clearly show the depth of feelings which exist in St Johns and elsewhere – on the passing of your Spouse and Father –
I met him in 1964 in my first year @ MUN -his legend began at an early age and certainly flourished thereafter –
“Peel er Bull“ would be called out as he showed off his fancy car around the A and W parking lot –good ole days indeed !
In his day and generation John Cook made a difference to many on the road of his life –
He is now at rest and may that rest be in peace –
Godspeed LJC –
Lisa , Lewis ,and Sarah ,
Thinking of all of you as you said farewell to this remarkable human. Was so kind to me from Day 1 and in early years of Idea Factory he claimed the crown of our favorite client. He helped so many people and did so silently without the confetti. Thats rare.
He made his mark. In all the ways that matter.
He will never be forgotten
Kevin Casey
So sorry for your loss and a loss it is…friendship was important to Bull and I appreciated his…my sincerest sympathy….Godspeed!
Lisa and family,
My condolences on the passing of a beloved husband, father, brother and a friend to so many.. I think of Bull as the proverbial son of the town, everyone knew him and he was universally liked and respected. I met him in his work and in mine as he worked closely with my law partner, and his success and longevity in the hospitality business was earned through hard work, keen intuition and teamwork. He left his town a better place.
Sincerely,
Peter O’Flaherty
To the Cook Family,
Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Cherish the memories from over the years.
Lisa, Lewis & Sarah,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Bull will be remembered for the gentleman he was and continued to be..
May God’s peace comfort you in those moments of grief and sorrow.
Judith & Michael Dupuis
Dear Lisa and family
Sincere condolences to you and the family. Bull was a kind and gentle soul and loved by many. Treasure your memories as they always remain.
Lisa , Lewis ,and Sarah ,
So very sad to hear of John’s passing. I always enjoyed our chats on his many visits to the salon. He will always be remembered as not only an icon in the bar industry ,
but as a kind and very gentle man .
Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers ,
Dale
Lisa and family,
Please accept my condolences on your loss.
Derm Penney
Lisa,
Please accept my condolences during this difficult time. Thinking of you and your family.
Colin and terry would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of John “Bull” Cook as he gave our us our start in the bar business. He was our mentor and was always there help us in any way we needed. Bull was larger than life, he lived a life well lived. I can still hear him say “more ice, less mix” Rest peacefully John. We will miss him so much and he will be forever in our hearts.
Dear Lisa and Family,
It has been many years since our paths have crossed Lisa but I have such fond memories of you and my deepest sympathy and prayers are with you in the passing of your dear husband. Please take care and know you are being thought of from an old friend who has never forgotten you, God Bless Lisa,
Joanne Browne
To Lisa, Lewis and Sarah
We feel so fortunate to have shared so many wonderful memories together over the years—days spent boating, fishing, interesting conversations, laughter, celebrations, and simply enjoying life’s special moments. Those memories will always hold a treasured place in our hearts.
Bull had a remarkable way of bringing people together and making every gathering brighter and better. . We will miss the friendship and the interesting stories he shared with all around him.
Please know that our thought are with you and your family during this time as you make your final farewell. . May you find comfort in the many beautiful memories and in knowing how deeply he will be remembered.
In friendship
Donna and Greer Hunt
I still remember Atlantic Insight’s article from the 80’s era, “This Bull in a bar makes $en$e”, on the occasion of Bull having just moved in on the Halifax bar scene. That was Bull, always moving forward, new horizons to conquer, always innovating, keeping his business fresh and energized, listening to his patrons and, in turn, curious and interested in their lives. Our deepest sympathies to the Cook Family.
The family and many friends of Bull are in our thoughts and prayers today. Bull was always a pleasure to see. His mood never seemed to change from positive and friendly. He was a very attentive guy to banter with and always had great tales to tell. We know that family, friends and faith will get all through this challenging time and allow focus on a life lived with such grace, humour and genuine kindness. God Bless you Bull!
To the Cook Family so sorry to hear of your loss
I have known Bull for many years and have always been respected and treated well by Bull in Big Ben’s and other establishments of his.. He was always ready to sit and chat with you.
He will be missed by many.
Our sincere condolences to the Cook family on Bull’s passing. I go back along way with him especially as a supplier in the wine & spirit industry. May he rest in peace. Ted & Donna Cantwell
To the Cook Family
There are Good Ships
There are Wood Ships
There are ships that sail upon the sea
But the best ships are Friendships
Forever may they be.
From your old friends and sailing buddies Gus and Arlene Crane
A Grand lad
So very sorry to learn of Bull’s passing,, our sincere condolences to the family. Bull and I go back a long way and shared many great memoirs. and enjoyed a number of fun trips together.
Unfortunately we are out of town this week but you will be in thoughts during this sad time.
Bull will be missed but long and fondly remembered.
I always admired Bull. We were friends from childhood on. So I didn’t see much of them in the last number of years we still had a great rapport when we encountered each other. I remember when I was a young kid of probably 10 and was pitching a baseball game with John at the bat. He hit a direct line to the space between my eyes and that was all she wrote. When I woke I was in my house, neither of my parents were there, and another one of the guys mothers was standing over me. My first concussion. I remember when John had a Jaguar XKE, and one day he gave it to me to take for a ride. That was one of the great joys of my young life. There’s so much more, but suffice to say John was a beautiful man, and he will be missed.
Lisa, lewis and Sarah
I was so fortunate to know Bull for seven decades from the days when we were living on Cherry Hill Rd with the Cook’s on Laughlin Crescent . I am so saddened that he passed away and recall the last time we met when I, along with my brother’s Brian and John visited him at St. Pat’s Home . I was not 100 percent sure that he knew exactly who we were but when I mentioned our old Newfoundland dog India, I saw the twinkle in his eye.
Bulk was always full of cheer and gregarious in the most pleasant of ways . He was also always deeply interested in listening to what others had to say . I will miss him as every encounter was very special ..
I hope that the abundance of the fondest of memories will help Lisa , Lewis and Sarah mend their broken hearts .
Also thinking of Doug and Nancy at this time .
RIP my friend
Chris O’Dea
My condolences to the family
Lisa, Lewis and Sarah
John was a ledgend in his rime. He will be sadly missed by all.
May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace and rise to everlasting glory
TERRY.
Lisa, Lewis and Sarah
We are deeply saddened to hear of John’s passing He was a brilliant business man, an entrepreneur and philanthropist.
He made everyone in a room feel welcome by engaging with them with his big smile and warm heart
He has left a great impression on every one who was fortunate enough to know him
He will be missed by many
Sending our love
Bernice and Tony
My sincere Condolences to All Family & Friends. I worked along side of John for twenty or more years. He was great, wise business person that had a special talent of relating to all the public. A true icon with an amazing heart & smile. CHEERS! BULL and May GOD BLESS YOU. From your friendly co-worker, ALEX CROCKER.
To Lisa& family, Doug & Janet,,
Sincere condolences to you all on the passing of John.
I’ve been a friend of the Cooks for many years.,Have many great memories..
Janet is one of my best friends, ,and I’m thinking of you all at this time.
May he be at peace now. God Bless, Arlene
To Lisa, Doug and John’s children and family members,
I am sad to hear of John’s passing. He had a big life and a good life. I never heard a bad word about John. he was always kind and cheerful when you met him!
My condolences to all his family and friends!
Reg Locke KC
Doug and family,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your brother.
Many memories of Sundance. Rip
Sincere condolences to the Cook family on the passing of one of my true friends Bull. Met him and his dad in 1977 as I started my pharmacy occupation at Elizaberh Drugs Churchill Square just 10 feet from Big Ben’s. Bull and I had been friends ever since. When I opened SDM in the square in 1990, he was always in the store asking me for some gout medication for his condition. Seriously he was a great guy who I admired and now today I’m feeling sad on his passing. He will be remembered by all who had dealings with him as a gem of a guy and a gentleman that all of us would inspire to be. RIP my old friend.
Condolences to his family
Doug, Janet, Lisa and family,
I’m Catherine (Cak) and Lou Halliday’s daughter and our parents were dear friends. I’m so sad to hear about Bull, it’s such a big loss. I know how proud his parents were of him, I’m sure you all are too.
It seems so fitting for a major St. John’s icon to be celebrated during Regatta week. We will surely raise a glass in his honour 💜
Lisa, Sarah and Lewis,
Heartfelt condolences as you say good bye to your dear loved one. Wishing you peace and good memories in the days ahead.
Rip Bull.
Xo
Sheilagh, Jeremy and the O’Leary family.
Lisa, Lewis , Sarah , so sorry to hear of John’s passing. I am sure, over time , you will have wonderful memories of all the marvellous times you had with “Bull” , both individually and collectively. You , Doug, Nancy, Janet and Dave and all tthe Cook and James families are in our thoughts and prayers.