Kenneth Eugene Cook, 77, of Witt, died on Friday, April 16, 2021, at 10:43 p.m. at his daughter’s home in Moweaqua.
Visitation will be held Friday, April 23, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Sutton Funeral Home in Nokomis. A memorial service will follow, beginning at 8 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Tim Revis officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date.
Mr. Cook was born June 26, 1943, in Granite City, to Robert and Myrtle (Graves) Cook. He married Kay Havera on Sept. 2, 1982, in Clayton, MO, and she survives.
He was a proud father and grandfather, and would never pass up the opportunity for a family get together. He had many hobbies, but loved nothing more than to brag about his kids and grandbabies. He always loved the St. Louis Cardinals and would never miss a chance to listen to them on the radio.
Mr. Cook had many occupations through the years, but his main passion was selling cars. He loved people and putting a smile on their faces. Over the last couple years, he was employed at Jachino’s Auto in Nokomis, and truly enjoyed every second of it. It didn’t matter if he sold one or five, he loved being out there by the people.
His favorite of all time was Elvis Presley. In his younger days, some even said he resembled him. Some of his greatest memories were spent playing Bocce ball. He would play any day, any time and in any season. He was always ready for some friendly competition during a Bocce tournament. Days before he passed, a friend of his came to visit and asked if he was ready to play, and his reply was, “lets go!”
Mr. Cook never knew a stranger. He was always ready to rumble if someone needed a tough guy in their corner. He welcomed everyone with the tightest handshake and a bear hug. He will be remembered for his hugs.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Kelli (Brian) Hanley of Moweaqua, Shane (fiancee Kristen Pearse) Cook of Pana, Tami (Chris) Kirpes and Michelle (Jerry) Busch, both of Texas; grandchildren, Lanae, Skylar and Amelia Hanley, Levi Patterson, Austin and Nickalaus Kirpes, Jacob, Makayla and Zachary Busch; brothers, Keith (Lisa) Cook of Missouri and Kevin (Kathy) Cook of Holiday Shores; siblings-in-law, Mike (Cherie) Havera, Mary Ann (Tony) Fox, Jim (Tricia) Havera, all of Nokomis, and Debbie (Terry) Schulte of Fillmore; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mr. Cook was preceded in death by his parents; and parents-in-law, Albert and Vickie Havera.
Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.
Online condolences to the family may be left at www.suttonmemorialhome.com.
