Remembering Richard ‘Rick’ Cook, 1956-2024

Last month, we reported on the death of Rick Cook, known as the “Psychic Barber” because of the sign at his shop (explained here). Today we have his official obituary:

Richard Cook
Born July 1956. Passed away suddenly September 25, 2024.

Rick was a well-known West Seattle resident who owned the barber shop on California Avenue SW, and he was a beloved fixture who touched almost everyone’s life. For 46 years generations of family and friends enjoyed stopping in his barber shop to swap stories and/or get a hair cut. Rick was in his element serving his customers, and he was always willing to lend a hand, going the extra mile to help someone out or find a bargain for them.

Rick’s family moved to West Seattle in 1972, and he graduated from Chief Sealth High School in ’74, after which he served in the Air Force. Upon completion of his service, Rick returned to West Seattle to establish his barber shops, necessitating several moves along California Avenue over the years as development took over the village.

His passion was riding motorcycles, and driving different cars, often trading every couple of years.

Rick is survived by his wife, Lisa Cook; also his sisters Maria and Paula, and brother Ron Cook.

Rest in Peace, Psychic Barber.

We welcome you to share your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall, at emmickfunerals.com/obituary/Richard-Cook – Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)

11 Replies to "Remembering Richard 'Rick' Cook, 1956-2024"

  • K November 5, 2024 (9:08 am)

    “explained here” doesn’t have a link to anything.  RIP Psychic Barber

  • Alki resident November 5, 2024 (9:11 am)

    There will never be another Psychic Barber in West Seattle. May he rest in peace. I still look the direction of his place when driving by that empty space. 

  • Mark Ward November 5, 2024 (9:28 am)

    My favorite note on his shop door, from the first few weeks of the pandemic lockdown, read “Yep, I should have seen this coming.” Still makes me smile. RIP Psychic Barber.

  • AS November 5, 2024 (9:47 am)

    Rick, Was so fun to be around in his shop.  Very nice, laid back guy. That will always be his spot. Rest in peace. 

  • ACG November 5, 2024 (9:56 am)

    I appreciated Rick’s sense of humor. My condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace. 

  • Thomas November 5, 2024 (11:07 am)

    Infectious smile always up to date on current events Great story teller 

  • Tbone November 5, 2024 (12:55 pm)

    Good bye Rick thanks for being my barber for 30 years!

  • JK November 5, 2024 (4:16 pm)

    I went to Chief Sealth with Rick. He was always kind and would give my friends and I rides home from school or to Spud for lunch and other places . I have enjoyed hearing about his psychic abilities.

  • Marina November 5, 2024 (4:21 pm)

    Goodbye Rick. I’ll miss you. 

  • Samantha November 5, 2024 (10:35 pm)

    Rick bought an emergency escape ladder from me off Craigslist years ago. When I met him at the barber shop he showed me the turtle living in the space and was so friendly, outgoing, and warm. It was the most fun sale. My condolences to his family, friends, and customers for the huge loss.

  • Billy November 11, 2024 (9:40 pm)

    Rick cut my hair my whole adult life . Walked into the shop on 35th. Luke, Brian & Rick….3rd chair . That was the start of start of  dozens upon dozens of haircuts as I followed Rick around WS. The psychic Barber sign. For me. First response from Rick . “ I knew You needed a haircut🤣 . That was Rick Cook ! Thanks for always fitting me in buddy.         Rest in peace my friend. Love and hugs to Ricks Family ❤️🫶PeaceBilly Mac

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