Obituaries

Robert John Cook Sr, 97 of Sault Ste. Marie, MI passed away peacefully on March 11, 2023. He was born on February 18, 1926, in Sault Ste. Marie, MI to the late Paul and Vina Cook. Robert was a graduate from Sault Area High School, Class of 1945. He was the beloved husband of the late Evelyn “Lou” Cook for 69 years.

Robert started working at Neville’s Superette at the age of 12 until he enlisted in the United States Army serving at Fort Knox, KY. He rose to the ranks of Sergeant for the 101st Air Borne Division and was discharged in 1952. He returned home and married the love of his life, Evelyn. Robert graduated from Michigan State University from the Meat Cutting School and continued working for Neville’s becoming Head Butcher; eventually Robert bought Neville’s in the late 1970s. His son, Edwin, bought the business in the early 1990s with Robert continuing to work with Edwin until 2022.

Robert enjoyed many things in life such as wood working, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, four wheeling, square dancing, and bowling. He was a Scout Master for Troop 103. He loved spending time out at the family cabin and later enjoyed spending time sitting and tending to his vegetable garden. Robert was always young at heart and loved learning new things. His favorite project was building a Cedar Strip Canoe with Edwin, along with many other wood working projects for his grandchildren.

Robert (Papa) was asked by his Doctor “What is the secret to living a long life?” Papa’s answer was “My Kids”. Robert lived life to the fullest and will be greatly missed by many.

He is survived by his children: Robert John Cook Jr. (Marilyn) of Lexington, KY, Martin (Lynnie) of Fairbanks, AK, Edwin (Wendy) of Sault Ste. Marie, MI and Pamela Cook of Gaylord, MI. Robert was blessed with 8 grandchildren: James Cook, Thomas Cook (Madison Doman), Nicholas (Meghan) Lewis, Ryan (Jordyn) Lewis, Dustin (Grayson) Lewis, Holly (Kyle) Fahler, Tasha (Ryan) Masakowski, and Carter Cook. Five great grandchildren: Nour, Wendy, and Robert Lewis, and Rylee and Pepper Fahler, that he loved spending time with.

Robert is also survived by three brothers Wayne (Ula) Cook, Jerome Cook, William Cook, and one sister Jerry Girone, as well as many nieces, nephews, and wonderful friends that he loved greatly.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Vina Cook, wife Evelyn Cook, brothers Paul Cook, Carl Cook, Fred Cook, and sister Shirley Leclerc.

A memorial service will be held on May 6, 2023, at the Elks Lodge. Times will be announced at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions will be used to purchase a memorial bench for the canal walking trail.

Rest in Peace, Papa.