Bill Cook

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

William Lee Cook, age 69 of Columbus, KS, passed away at Medicalodge South in Pittsburg at 3:55 PM on Saturday, February 15, 2020.

Bill was born to Daily Brown and Pauline Mee on September 13, 1950 in Crossville, TN. In 1958, Bill, his sister Connie Lou, and his brother Jack Kenneth were adopted by Joseph Wayne Cook and Betty Jean (Cummings) Cook, and joined the family with their daughter, Vicki Jo Cook. 

Bill was an apprentice of Harry King of Columbus, KS at King’s Garage, starting in 7th grade and working through high school. He worked as mechanic for many years. He enjoyed singing bass in Choraliers, and played french horn in the CUHS band. Nicknamed “Cookie” among his classmates, he graduated with the Class of 1968 from CUHS in Columbus, KS. 

After high school he joined the Navy in 1968, where he proudly served for several years including wartime in Vietnam. After his return, he and Twyla (Ford) Cook were married on July 31, 1972. They had 3 children, Ernest Odell, Darrell Cook, and Joseph Cook.

Survivors are his wife, Twyla Cook; one son Joseph Cook (wife, Gloria), a sister, Connie; a brother, Jack; and a sister, Vicki; as well as many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his adopted parents, Joseph and Betty Jean Cook; one step-son, Ernest Odell; and one son, Darrell Cook.

Arrangements are under the direction of Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus. Private burial will take place at Columbus City Cemetery. No services are planned at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com