Dr. Tim Cook Ottawa, Ontario Death and Obituary – The Canadian historical community is mourning the profound loss of Dr. Tim Cook, the Chief Historian at the Canadian War Museum, who passed away in October 2025 at the age of 54. His passing marks the end of a remarkable era in Canadian military scholarship, as Dr. Cook was widely regarded as one of the nation’s most passionate and influential historians.
The Canadian War Museum officially announced his death on Sunday, October 26, 2025, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a visionary who helped shape the understanding of Canada’s wartime experiences. While the cause of death was not publicly disclosed, it was known that Dr. Cook had previously battled Hodgkin’s disease, a struggle he had faced with great strength and dignity.
Born with an enduring curiosity about Canada’s past, Tim Cook’s career was defined by his commitment to uncovering and preserving the stories of Canadian soldiers, both on and off the battlefield. Over the course of his distinguished career, he authored 19 acclaimed books on military history, offering both academic depth and human insight into the experiences of Canadians in times of war. His works — including Vimy: The Battle and the Legend, Shock Troops, and The Necessary War — became cornerstones of Canadian historical literature, earning him multiple awards and widespread recognition.
Beyond his writing, Dr. Cook was a central figure in the transformation of the Canadian War Museum into one of the world’s leading institutions for military heritage. As its Chief Historian, he curated major exhibitions that brought history to life through personal stories, artifacts, and innovative displays. His dedication extended beyond the walls of the museum; he spearheaded an oral history project that recorded the voices and memories of countless veterans, ensuring their experiences would be preserved for future generations.
Dr. Cook’s contributions to academia were equally significant. As an Adjunct Research Professor at Carleton University, he mentored young historians, inspiring them to pursue truth, empathy, and intellectual rigor in their research. His impact on students and colleagues was profound, marked by generosity, humor, and a deep respect for Canada’s military legacy.
His remarkable achievements were recognized nationally. Dr. Cook was a Member of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors, and a recipient of the Charles Taylor Prize for Literary Non-Fiction, celebrating his exceptional ability to bring history to life through narrative and scholarship.
In the wake of his passing, tributes have poured in from across Canada and beyond. Colleagues, veterans, readers, and students alike have described him as a gifted storyteller, a compassionate educator, and a tireless advocate for remembrance.
Dr. Tim Cook’s legacy will continue to shape how Canadians understand their history — not just through his books and exhibitions, but through the countless lives he touched. His passion for uncovering the human side of war ensures that his influence will endure for generations to come.
