Howard L. Cook

Howard L. Cook, age 90, passed away on July 2, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on October 20, 1933, in Lamar, Missouri, to Daina Austin Cook and Helen (Jarvis) (Cook) Holt.

Howard graduated from William Chrisman High School in the class of 1951 and served with honor in the Missouri National Guard for 10 years.

He married Edith L. McKinney on October 8, 1955, and they had two daughters, Linda and Karen.

Howard worked for the Gas Service Company for 35 years. In retirement, he worked as a driver for Elderhostel and for the Graceland College nursing program, as well as staying active in volunteer service such as delivering meals on wheels, driving friends and family to appointments, and organizing recycling efforts among his fellow residents at Heritage House.

He was a member of the RLDS Church, and later of the South Crysler Restoration Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ. He treasured his calling as a deacon and tirelessly served the congregation in that capacity.

Howard was also very active in advocacy for the handicapped, participating in efforts in the 1960’s and 70’s that led to the establishment of a school for the severely handicapped in Jackson County, as well as group homes and the sheltered workshop. He was devoted to his handicapped daughter, Linda, and helped her to participate in events such as the Special Olympics, bowling, and fishing, along with many other activities.

Howard was dedicated to his family. He supported his wife, Edith, in being a homemaker and being active in church activities and service projects and was involved in many of Karen’s activities at school and church as she was growing up.

Howard is survived by his wife, Edith, daughters Linda Cook and Karen Thomas, grandchildren Alex Thomas and Kelsey Thomas, his sister Sarah McNardy, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daina Cook and Helen Holt, his brother Robert Cook and nephew Daniel Cook, and other cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 9, at 10:00am, with a funeral service at 10:30am, at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, followed by a graveside memorial at Mound Grove Cemetery.