Dr. John M. Cook

By | March 10, 2016

Dr. John M. Cook died peacefully at the Ohio State University Ross Heart Hospital on Saturday, March 5, 2016. He was born in Baltimore, Ohio, on February 16, 1915 to the late David and Grace (Lewis) Cook. He was preceded in death by his wife Nadine, in 1978; and his second wife, Donna Crist, in 1993. He was also preceded in death by his five brothers and two sisters: Joseph, Lewis, Anna, David, William, Thomas Cook and Margaret Hunt.

He is survived by his sons, Bert (Beverly) Cook of Columbus and Charles (Sharon) Cook of Powell, Ohio. Also surviving are his grandchildren: Jan Cook (Dan Fox), Megan (Terry) Burns, Bryn (Charles) Haggins, Charles (Allison) Cook, John (Cheri) Cook, Elizabeth (Zack) Howard, Matthew (Raenee) Gross, and Marissa Gross; 12 great-grandchildren, many beloved nieces and nephews, and dear friends Sharon Eubanks and Nancy Brammer.

John graduated from Otterbein College and Western Reserve Medical School, and was an Army medical officer in the Pacific during WW II. Following his discharge from the service he served as a physician and surgeon at VA hospitals in Indiana and West Virginia. He moved to Jackson in 1953 and joined the staff of the Oak Hill Hospital. After retiring from general surgery he continued his medical practice in Jackson until his retirement. He also served as Jackson County Coroner.

His energy, dedication to his profession, and love of life was evident for the many years he lived and worked in Jackson County. He was an avid golfer, loved ballroom and square dancing, traveling, reading, and was a life-long learner. His later years were filled with weekly visits from his sons, and until recently, many dancing events with friends.

John was a member of Christ United Methodist Church of Jackson and many professional and medical associations. He was a lifetime member of the Franklin Valley Golf Club, of which he was one of the original founders in 1964.

His life was a life well lived. He was a good and gentle man and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at Christ United Methodist Church from noon until 2 p.m., on Saturday, March 12, 2016, followed immediately by the memorial service. Private interment will be in the Oak Hill C&M Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ United Methodist Church of Jackson, or the charity of your choice. Arrangements are being handled by Mayhew-Brown Funeral Home of Jackson.