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William K. Cook
2019-07-10
William K. Cook, age 89 of Callahan, FL passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Forida.
He was born in Tallahassee, Florida on October 26, 1929 to loving parents Eva Patterson Cook and Dessie Roland Cook.
He graduated from Leon High in 1946. After graduation he moved to Callahan, Florida to join his uncle�s turpentine and pulp wood business. In 1950, he joined the United States Air Force during the Korean War. In 1954 he returned to his career in Callahan where he began building his forestry legacy. In February 1955 he married Betty Pickett Cook, a nurse and later a philanthropist who not only became the Director of Nursing for the Nassau County Health Department but would serve as Nassau County�s first woman County Administrator. Together they had two sons, William Kindree Cook, Jr. and Robert Patterson Cook.
The Cook�s loved being parents and grandparents, traveling, playing golf and family. Betty P. Cook was his lifelong partner and wife until her death in 2013. They were married for 58 years.
During Mr. Cook�s life he had many accomplishments including, President of the Florida Forestry Association, Chairman of the Board Nassau County State Banks, creation of the Florida Forestry Foundation, Florida Forestry Tree PAC, as well as being honored to the prestigious Florida Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2017. Mr. Cook was a true leader, entrepreneur, and family man.
He is survived by his sons, William Kindree Cook, Jr., Robert Patterson Cook (Michele); grandchildren, Dr. William Burgess Cook, Robert Patterson Cook, Jr. (Elizabeth), Caroline Michele Cook, sisters, Kathryn Cook Cox, Betty Cook Miller, Kate Cook Raulerson (Ray) and many loving nieces and nephews and dear friends.
Funeral services will be held at the First Baptist Church of Callahan on Monday, July 15, 2019 beginning at 11:00 AM with Pastor Lynn Hyatt officiating.
Mr. Cook will be laid to rest with his wife at Live Oak Baptist Church Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Advance Cancer Research at Mayo Clinic Florida and they may be directed to the Mayo Clinic Development Office, 4500 San Pablo Road, South, Jacksonville, FL 32224.
Memories
MAUREEN & BOB COPELAND July 11, 2019
Our deep heartfelt sympathy to the Cook family. Mr. Cook was a very special man. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Much Love.
DEBBIE LOGAN July 11, 2019
Mr. cook you were a wonderful friend to me . i will always have you in my memories. i send prayers to your family.
LORI AND ERIC HOOPER July 12, 2019
We offer our deepest sympathies and prayers to all of the family members at this time of need.
GUY W. NORRIS July 12, 2019
Mr. Cook and Mrs. Cook were cherished friends of the Norris family. What a great man and legacy. We offer our thoughts and prayers to the entire Cook family for the peace that passes all understanding. We will all miss William Cook.
LYNN GREEN July 12, 2019
Our deepest sympathies to the Cook family. Me. Cook was loved and respected by many. He will truly be missed.I know that he and Mrs. Betty are celebrating his homegoing.God bless and comfort his family.
JUDY AND DICK PHELPS July 12, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cook family. Mr Cook was well loved and respected and will be surely missed. Lord please comfort them and bring them peace at this difficult time..
TRUDI COLSEN HARRIS July 12, 2019
I just loved them as a little girl and admired them as I grew up! I have been away from Callahan for a long time but have always been thankful for the family and people I grew up with and great parents! Also the First Baptist Church of Callahan. Deepest sympathies and prayers to the family! God bless you and comfort you!
KIM CHILDRESS July 13, 2019
Bill so sorry for your loss! It was good to see see him at the cabin in North Carolina a few years ago! He looked great and was fun sharing stories o the porch.. Give Bob my best and love to you and all your family! Kim Chiltess Sylva NC
DON & SUE HUGHES July 13, 2019
Bill, Bob, Michelle, William, Robert, Caroline � Our hearts are with you as you lay William to rest to join his beloved Betty. Individually and together they left legacies that will benefit many for generations. Our thoughts and prayers are with all on your loss. Although we will not be able to attend the service,, due to being out of state, our spirits will be there. Don & Sue Hghes
KAREN HUNTER CONNOR July 14, 2019
Bill and Bob,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your Dad was a wonderful, kind man. He always had a smile and great conversation when I would see him uptown. He loved this town and people who lived here. HIS chats would always go to you and he was so proud of you both and grandchildren. This town has lost a legion, mentor, hero, and friend and he will be greatly missed just as your Mother. I have been blessed with the privilege to know and have them in my life.
ESTELLE SMITH TANNER RIVERA July 15, 2019
Im so sorry to hear of Mr. Cook�s passing. He was such a good man in all aspects of his life. Kenneth spent many many years working for him at Callahan Timber. Praying for God�s peace during this difficult time.
BETTY ( ROBERT) RAY July 30, 2019
Was so sorry to hear of William�s passing. I was out of town. He was extremely well respected and just a dear man. I have fond memories of him and of Mr. Dessie and Mrs. Pat. He will be greatly missed. My prayers are with you all.