James M. “Mike” Cook age 69 of Clinton, Iowa, passed away Tuesday March 28, 2023 at MercyOne in Clinton. Cremation rites have been accorded and a memorial service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday April 15th at the Pape Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Saturday 9:30 AM until the service hour at the Pape Funeral Home. Burial will be held at St. Irenaeus Calvary Cemetery, Clinton. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.
Mike was born on July 20, 1953 in Clinton, IA, the son of Clarence J. “Jim” and Claudine R. “Dena” (Wendt) Cook. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1971 and Clinton Community College. Mike married Laurel “Laurie” Winter on June 3, 1978 in Clinton, IA; she died in 2014. Mike worked at Chicago Northwestern Railroad for 19 years, Custom Pak as an inventory manager, and at the Clinton Home Depot. He enjoyed coaching basketball and golfing.
Mike is survived by his two daughters, Dr. Jennifer Lovdahl of Anchorage, AK and Dr. Christine (Dr. Kyle) Haynes of Brimfield, IL; two grandchildren, Cora and Declan; his brother, Tom Cook of Camanche, IA; and his sister, Cindy Switzer of Des Moines, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Laurie.
I’m saddened by the passing of such a great friend, one whom I’ve been honored to call friend for over half a century, and a friendship I’ve cherished over the decades. The memories of the times we had together— school, playing golf, softball, flag football, shooting pool, fishing, cheering on the Bears, the Bulls, the Hawkeyes, listening to great music—-these memories are gifts from my friend, “Cookie”. I am grateful for his gifts and his friendship and know that none of this has come to an end but has merely transitioned into another phase of eternal Life. Peace and Love always, my great friend!
Thanks Tom for your kind words and for sharing fun memories!