STATEMENT BY FRED RYAN, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF THE RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL FOUNDATION AND INSTITUTE ON THE DEATH OF LODWRICK COOK

Simi Valley, California – The Reagan Foundation mourns the loss of Lodwrick Cook, a long-time business leader in Louisiana’s oil and gas industry, who served on the Reagan Foundation’s Board beginning in 1989. Mr. Cook was one of the foundation’s first Chairmen, serving in the role from 1989 to 2000. He began his service as a Lifetime Emeritus Trustee from 2009 until his passing.  While serving as the Foundation’s Board Chairman he officiated the opening of the Reagan Library, saying, “The library's more than simply a center for study and research. It will also be a living testimonial to a great President and a nation he led through two terms of office. As such, the library is really for every American, the tourists, the school kids, all the people. Their interests went to the heart of the Reagan's presidency and their curiosity and desire for knowledge will be served here too.”