Mary Lou (McRoberts) Cook

OBITUARY

Mary Lou (McRoberts) Cook, 88, of La Quinta, California, passed away peacefully on July 4, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born May 21, 1938, in Los Angeles, California, to Lina and Thomas McRoberts, Mary Lou was raised in Escondido, where she became known from an early age for her intelligence, grace, and adventurous spirit. She graduated from Escondido Union High School in 1956 before attending Palomar College, where she earned an associate degree and distinguished herself both academically and personally. She was honored with the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) Good Citizen Award, received a Bank of America Award for excellence in business studies, and was selected as Palomar College’s Homecoming Princess.

In 1959, Mary Lou fulfilled a lifelong dream by earning her silver wings as one of American Airlines’ jet-age stewardesses. After completing stewardess training in Fort Worth, Texas, she began flying during the dawn of the Jet Age–an exciting era when commercial aviation captured the imagination of the world. It was an accomplishment she always remembered with pride.

On January 21, 1961, Mary Lou married the love of her life, McKenzie “Ken” Cook, at St. Mary’s Church in Escondido. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family, sharing more than 65 years of marriage.

Together, Mary Lou and Ken made their home in Depoe Bay, Oregon, during the summer months and La Quinta, California, during the winter. Side by side, they built not only a remarkable life together but also helped establish McKenzie Farms, which grew to become the largest fresh-cut Christmas tree farm in the United States. While Ken led the business, Mary Lou worked tirelessly alongside him, contributing to its growth and success with the same dedication, strength, and commitment she brought to every aspect of her life.

A gifted cook, baker, and gracious hostess, Mary Lou had a remarkable talent for making every holiday and birthday feel magical. Family traditions were created around her table, where delicious meals, homemade treats, and heartfelt celebrations brought loved ones together. She never missed a birthday without sending a card, a simple but meaningful gesture that reflected how deeply she cared for the people in her life.

Her creativity knew no bounds. Mary Lou became a nationally recognized recipe contestant, earning multiple honors in the Pillsbury Bake-Off, including two category- winning recipes. Her salsa recipe won Newman’s Own’s $10,000 Recipe for Charity Contest, and she was a finalist in the 2001 National Beef Cook-Off. She was also an accomplished knitter and artisan who lovingly created hand-painted baby clothing, handcrafted Christmas ornaments, and countless handmade gifts that her family will treasure for generations.

While these accomplishments reflected her talent and creativity, those who knew Mary Lou will remember her most for her kindness, quiet strength, elegance, and unwavering devotion to her family. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved. Her home was a place where memories were made, traditions were cherished, and every guest felt like family.

Mary Lou is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, McKenzie “Ken” Cook; her four children, Amy Davis, Thomas Cook, Allison Cook Castro, and Caroline Anderson; eleven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind countless dear friends and extended family whose lives were enriched by her generosity, warmth, and enduring friendship.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Live Like Kayla Foundation, supporting scholarships and outreach programs for young people. Donations may be made online through Live Like Kayla Foundation or mailed to Live Like Kayla Foundation at Attn: Allison Cook Castro PO Box 534 Gleneden Beach, OR 97388.