James Allen Cook was born Feb. 18, 1929, in Yuma County, Colo., and he passed from this life peacefully on Feb. 13, 2014, in Meeker.
A celebration of his life and birthday was held Feb. 18 at the Freeman E. Fairfield Center, and he was laid to rest in Highland Cemetery on Feb. 20, 2014. He was the fourth of 13 children born to Robert James Cook and Daisy Margaret Cook.
Jim is survived by: his wife, Patty; four daughters; nine grandchildren; 12 great- grandchildren; one brother; and two sisters.
Jim Cook and Patty Rector were married in Meeker on May 9, 1950. They raised four daughters; Dona (Ron) Hilkey, Barbara (Ken) Pelloni, Jamie (Carl) McGruder and Marty (Butch) McAlister. A son, Kenneth Allen Cook, lost his life in a tragic accident in 1965 at the age of 8 years.
Early to bed, early to rise; always looking forward to a new day and to hard work.
Jim Cook is well known for his hard work and honesty. He was a genuinely generous person and was willing and helpful to others. He and Patty and their kids built lots of fence in this area.
Jim and Patty cut and supplied firewood to many of us. Jim operated road machinery for the Wilson Creek oil field operators and for Rio Blanco County.
Jim Cook’s greatest love was for his family and grandkids. He enjoyed holidays, birthday parties and any family get-together. He loved to see the grandkids and their kids wrestle, play football, and do other sports. He took much pleasure at watching the kids at play.
In his younger days, Jim enjoyed playing baseball, did a little boxing and other sports. He loved watching the boys play football and went to their wrestling matches when he could.
Jim Cook’s passion was hunting; particularly elk hunting. Jim took a record-book bull elk and a record mule deer buck. Jim’s daughters share his love of the outdoors and most of his grandchildren inherited his passion for elk hunting.
Cards may be sent to Patty Cook, c/o The Walbridge Wing, 345 Cleveland St., Meeker, Colo., 81641.