John Cook, Sr., who served as chairman of the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA) from 1987-88, passed away on Saturday, January 15. He was 82 years old.
Cook was the former president and owner of The Athletic House Sporting Goods in Knoxville, Tenn., a team dealer business established in 1922 that currently sells merchandise for 11 sports. One of the top sales generating businesses in East Tennessee, Athletic House's current president is Cook's son, John Cook, Jr., who is the third Cook to run the business.
According to NSGA President & CEO Matt Carlson, “We are saddened by the passing of former NSGA Chairman, John Cook. He devoted his career to furthering the sporting goods industry while at the same time helping his community. He will be sorely missed by his friends in the industry.”
Cook, Sr. began his career in 1954 as a salesman at The Athletic House after graduating from the University of Tennessee, becoming a manager of the store's school department in 1967. He became president of the company in 1974.
In 1982, he was elected to NSGA's Board of Directors, where he served as Treasurer in 1985-86 and as Chairman in 1987-88. He also served on the association's education and trade show advisory committees during his time on the Board. He also served one term as Chairman of The Sports Foundation, Inc. following his time as NSGA's Chairman.
Last year, Cook was inducted into the Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his many contributions to the community through the years.
His wife of 57 years, Harriett, survives, along with the couple's four children, Marion, Karen, John and Carrie.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 18 at 3:00 pm at Sequoyah Hills Presbyterian Church 3700 Keowee Ave. in Knoxville, and memorial contributions may be made to Sertoma Center, 1400 E. Fifth Avenue in Knoxville, or the church.
For more information about membership, or NSGA's products and services, please visit www.nsga.org.
