Harry E. Rook 90 of Syracuse, son of Jane M. and Harry Rook, passed away on November 23, 2015. Born in 1925 in Cortland, N.Y., he attended Cortland High School, graduating in 1944. He then graduated from Syracuse University earning his B.S. in Education in 1948 and his M.S. in 1951. His studies included semesters at University of Oxford, UK and Cornell University. Harry worked in the City of Syracuse Department of Engineering under six successive mayors. He was appointed Deputy City Engineer by Mayor William Walsh in 1961 and held the position of City Engineer from 1968 until his retirement in 1986. Following retirement, Harry served on the Metropolitan Water Board from 1987 to 2014 as Deputy Chairman. He was a member of the American Public Works Association serving as President of the New York State Chapter and was a registered N.Y. Professional Engineer.
Harry was an avid golfer and a member of the Drumlins Golf Club for 45 years. He also enjoyed sailing, the outdoors, and yearly winter visits with his wife Joyce to Fort Lauderdale, Fl. Harry's interests included building models of his favorite ships and working with his hands. He was a problem solver, a committed student of history, a musician and a life-long learner. Harry loved his travels to Great Britain for visits with extended family and treasured spending time with immediate family and childhood friends.
Harry is survived by Joyce his wife of 65 years, his brother Jonathan of Glen Aubrey, N.Y., daughter Margaret (David) Compton, sons Stephen (Mary Ellen) and Michael (Heidi). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Michael, Allison, Patrick, Sarah and Austin and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 27, 2015 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Burns-Garfield "A Life Celebration Home", 3175 E. Genesee St., Syracuse, N.Y. Burial in Cortland Rural Cemetery, Cortland, N.Y. will follow on Saturday November 28, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.burnsgarfield.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208.