Jerry Joe Cook, age 81, passed away June 24, 2022 at his Wolcott residence surrounded by loving family.  Born November 12, 1940 to Joe and Elberta (Gilmore) Cook, he was the oldest of 3 siblings.  Growing up on the family farm with his sisters, agriculture was always a focal point of his life.  

On August 26, 1962 he married Jacqueline (Bordner).  He is survived by his wife Jacque and their children include Stan (Holly) Cook of Wolcott, Mike (Jan) Cook of Mariemont, OH, Laura (David) Black of Woodstock, GA and Annette (David) Suchanek of Villa Hills, KY.  He was extremely proud of his 10 grandchildren Alyssa (Jacob) Friesen, Ben (Hannah) Cook, Bryce (Marissa) Cook, Samantha Cook, Josh Cook, Mandy (Colby) DeSantis, Aaron, “AJ” Black, Lyndsay Suchanek, Lauren Suchanek and Austin Suchanek.  It was a special joy for his first great-grandchild, Iris Friesen, to come into the world June 2, 2022.  

A 1958 graduate of Wolcott High School, he was a lifelong proud Wildcat.  A four year varsity basketball player, many of his favorite memories revolve around his high school basketball experiences, not the least of which was being part of Wolcott’s first White County Tourney championship team since 1926.  His passion for basketball remained a positive for him for many years as he was still playing full court games and shooting 'three's' at age 65.  A particular highlight was the many years of Wednesday and Sunday night pickup games in the Wolcott gym with many solid players over the years who love the game as much as he did.  

The 10 grandchildren had significant athletic and academic success and he would talk at length about how talented they are. It was a particular passion of his to be part of his grandsons’ Tri-County basketball experience and thoroughly enjoyed watching them rise through the ranks and the success they and their teammates generated.  

Jerry attended Purdue, graduating in 1962.  He would frequently reminisce that he tried out for Purdue's freshman team and nearly made it, eliminated at the last cut.  He taught agriculture education and was 4-H leader and FFA advisor at Wolcott and Tri-County for 25 years, having a positive impact on many youth of the community. 

Education and community were important to Jerry.  He had a soft spot for those to whom life was less than kind as evidenced by the alternative school (LifeGaps) he started and maintained for many years, helping many earn their GED.  Although that soft spot tended to manifest itself as tough love, over the years his efforts bore much positive fruit.  A common theme as people have reflected on his impact includes words like, “He saw something in me that motivated me to always do my best.”   Jerry also was passionate about agricultural fertilizer sales.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Joe and Elberta (‘Bert') as well as his sisters, Patricia Joan Fitch and Sharon Elberta Davis.  Three nieces and two nephews also survive.  

The family extends sincere thanks to the community for support of LifeGaps and especially for his care-giving team the past several months whose persistent compassion will always be treasured.  Special thanks to Franciscan’s Hospice team and also Beth Crawford. 

Arrangements include visitation from 5-7pm Thursday, June 30 at Stitz-Clapper Funeral Home in Remington, followed by the funeral service Friday, July 1 at Wolcott Christian Church, Pastor Tom Bennett officiating. There will be visitation time starting at 2pm Friday with the service beginning at 3pm.  Brief graveside service at Remington Cemetery will follow. 

 In honor of Jerry, the family requests that you “come as you are” to the visitation and/or funeral – no need to dress up.  Memorial contributions can be made to the “Jerry Cook Scholarship Fund” in care of Bank of Wolcott - a one-time scholarship to a local student in Jerry’s honor.  Envelopes will be provided. 

Please share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com.