Alvin "Al" Jay Cook's Obituary
April 17, 2014, Alvin “Al” Jay Cook, 92 of Grand Haven, peacefully left this world to meet his risen Lord. He was born to Jacob and Fannie (Schoonveld) Cook on May 10, 1921 and has lived here his entire life.
He was a graduate of Grand Haven High School class of 1939. He enjoyed working with his classmates on many reunions, and even in his later years they met every year.
After high school, he continued to work at the store which his father started, Cooks Hardware and Plumbing. In 1941 Al enlisted in the Army. He was a humble and passionate World War II veteran serving with the 4th Infantry Division which was instrumental in the invasion of Utah Beach on D-Day. His service to our country impacted him greatly and his patriotism was passed on to his son Jim (Army) and grandson Mark (Marine Corps). Upon returning from the service he joined his father and brother in the family store.
He was a member of 2nd Reformed Church having served as elder, deacon and many times on the building and grounds committee. He was also involved with many local organizations, including the American Legion, Salvation Army, Gideons, Rotary, Chamber of Commerce (President) and Peoples Bank Trust (Board member).
Al married Lois Nietering on July 25, 1945. They celebrated 67 years together before her passing on December 26, 2012. When once asked how he met Lois, Al replied that he had known her as a friend since the 2nd grade and had been married to her “forever”.
Al is survived by his 4 children: Yvonne and Tom Vander Lee of Grand Haven, Jack and Maggie Cook of Nevada, Jim and Marja Cook of Spring Lake and Judy and Bill McMurray of Missouri. He is also the incredibly cherished Grandpa of Matt and Rachelle Vander Lee, Jennifer and Tony Darland, Mark and Maggie Vander Lee, Adam and Jaime Cook and step-grandchildren, Aaron, Maggie, Maureen, Mary and Molly. He is dearly loved and adored by his great-grandchildren: Jacob and Mattison Vander Lee, Nolan, Evelyn, and Faith Darland; Elizabeth, Katie, Benjamin and Samuel Vander Lee; and Reegan and Evan Cook. He is also survived by his loving sister Laraine VerPlank. He is preceded in death by grandson Drew Cook, sisters Gen, Frances and Evelyn and brother Ed.
Anyone who knew Al would tell you of his kindness, integrity, loyalty and service to others. It wasn’t just his business, but his lifestyle. Al expressed his love to his family, his friends and the world through his acts of service. He cared deeply for those who were in need and nothing filled him with more joy than being the hands of Christ Jesus whom he whole heartedly loved and served. All that Al did on this earth was an act of gratitude for the gift of salvation that he received from Jesus.
Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa and brother will be greatly missed. But “be of good cheer,” (John 16:33) his dark winter has been graciously and lovingly transformed into spring.
A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 21, 2014 at 2nd Reformed Church with Rev. Paul Burmeister officiating. Visitation will be after the service in the church family center. Military rites will be provided by the American Legion Charles A. Conklin Post #28. In lieu of flowers we ask that you would consider making a donation in honor of Al to Bethany Christian Services. Our family would greatly appreciate knowing how you chose to express your honor and sympathy. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.vbkfuneralhome.com.
The family is being served by VanZantwick Bartels Kammeraad Funeral Home of Grand Haven.
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