Gerald Cook

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gerald Paul Cook, fondly known as Jerry to his friends and acquaintances, on March 10, 2024. Jerry was born on January 16, 1933, in Grand Rapids. His charismatic personality, courage, and generosity positively influenced everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. A dedicated educator for the public school system, Jerry was a pillar of reliability and a role model for many. His passion for teaching was only matched by his love for watching and playing sports, particularly golf. He loved to travel, spending the winters of his last 30 years in Bonita Springs, Florida. He also, enjoyed family camping trips, pulling his camper to many locations, including Colorado, Myrtle Beach, Disneyland in Orlando, plus Northern Michigan. An active member of the Moose Lodge and the American Legion, Jerry's spirit of community and camaraderie was always on full display. As Winston Churchill rightly said, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Gerald embodied this sentiment through his generous nature and commitment to service. Gerald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Cook, his mother, Letha Cook, his daughter, Sheryl Schroeter, his sister, Ann Zerfas, his brother-in-law, Carl Zerfas, and his son-in-law, Dennis Rickert. He is survived by his sons, Thomas (Veronica) Cook, and Mark (Mary) Cook, and his daughter, Lynn Cook-Rickert. He is also survived by his many nieces, nephews and grandchildren, plus his long time companion Mary Nichols. As he often said, what mattered most to him were his family, friends, and colleagues. His love and dedication to his family were evident in every aspect of his life. Jerry graduated from Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School in 1951. He was the starting defensive end for the undefeated and city league champion high school football team. He attended Central Michigan University and eventually graduated from Western Michigan University with both his undergraduate degree plus his Masters. He taught physical education and coached various sports at both Northview and Comstock Park High Schools. Eventually becoming the Athletic Director at Kent Occupational High School. Where he both taught physical education, coached many sports, and taught drivers education. At one time, Jerry was the only certified state of Michigan drivers education teacher for physically handicapped students. "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die," as Thomas Campbell expressed. Gerald's love, wisdom, and kindness will forever live in our hearts. We encourage those who knew and loved Gerald to share their memories and photos on his memorial page. His story is not just a tale of one man's life; it's a testament to a life well-lived, a community served, and a family loved. As Jerry would say "It is what it is." & "That's Life." A memorial service will be held at a later date. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Jerry's online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Gerald Cook, please visit our flower store.