Obituaries

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Caleb Donald John Glenn Cook, age 38, died on August 27, 2026. He was born on May 29, 1988, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Donald and Debbie (Hatch) Cook.

Caleb was intelligent, generous, kind-hearted, and so funny. He loved deeply and lived passionately, and when something or someone captured his heart, he went all in.

Above all else, Caleb’s daughter, Ella, meant everything to him. Being her dad was his greatest joy in life. She held a very special place in his heart, and he treasured the time they shared together. His love for Ella will continue to live on through her and through all the memories she carries of her dad.

Caleb also shared an incredibly special bond with his dad, Donald “Biz” Cook. He loved doing anything with his dad, and many of his happiest memories were made alongside him. Sadly, after losing his dad at 18 years old affected Caleb deeply, and that loss remained with him throughout his life. Caleb spent the rest of his life longing to be with him again. He carried the love, memories, and lessons from his dad with him always. The love between them was deep and impossible to replace.

Caleb was close with his mom, Deb. He called her every day, even if it was only to update her on his life or share the little things happening in his day. She was one of his best friends and was often the first person he thought of. Caleb was always looking for something he could give her because making her happy was important to him. Their bond was one of deep friendship and unconditional love.

Caleb loved spending time outdoors and was happiest on the water. He loved his jobs dredging and had fond memories of fishing with his grandpa. He recently picked up golfing and gardening and quickly came to love those, too. He definitely had a green thumb. True to who Caleb was, he didn’t do anything halfway—when he found something he enjoyed, he threw himself into it completely.

Caleb took pride in making good food and sharing it. He really knew how to cook. Cooking was something he was naturally good at, and he was often told he missed his calling to be a chef.

Caleb was a beloved son, father, brother, and friend. He is survived by his daughter, Ella; mother, Deb Cook and her partner, Mark Mapes; sisters, Rachel Jean Cook and Hannah Cook; and many other family members and friends, including his best friend, Rob, and his cousin, Christopher, who all loved him dearly.

Caleb’s life was far too short, but the mark he left on the people who knew him will last forever. His laughter, his generosity, his passion, and especially the immense love he had for Ella and his family will never be forgotten.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

A private Graveside Service was held in Caleb’s honor on August 31, 2026.

Caleb’s final resting place is Mission Hill Cemetery, in Bay Mills, Michigan.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Pickford assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.