Tim Cook, a respected figure at the Canadian War Museum and a leading expert in Canadian military history, passed away as announced by the museum on Sunday. Described as a dedicated advocate for the museum and Canadian military history, Cook made significant contributions to the Ottawa institution over more than twenty years, noted Caroline Dromaguet, the museum’s president and CEO.

Throughout his career, Cook authored over 19 books and received multiple accolades, such as the Ottawa Book Award for literary non-fiction on four separate occasions. In his recent book titled “Life Savers and Body Snatchers: Medical Care and the Struggle for Survival in the Great War” published in 2022, Cook brought to light findings that Canadian doctors were involved in a British initiative to harvest organs from deceased First World War soldiers without proper consent.

Reflecting on his discoveries, Cook expressed his astonishment at the lack of awareness surrounding this aspect of history, emphasizing its absence in traditional narratives of how fallen soldiers were treated. Among his notable works are “No Place to Run: The Canadian Corps and Gas Warfare in the First World War” and “The Necessary War, Volume 1: Canadians Fighting The Second World War: 1939-1943,” both of which earned him the prestigious C.P. Stacey Award, presented annually for outstanding contributions to Canadian military history.

In a publication from late last year titled “The Good Allies,” Cook delved into the intricate relationship between the United States and Canada during World War II, highlighting the enduring relevance of historical lessons for contemporary international partnerships. Recognized for his scholarly achievements, Cook was honored with awards such as the Governor General’s History Award and induction into the Order of Canada.

Tim Cook, aged 54, passed away, with the museum refraining from disclosing the specific cause of his death.