COOK, Robert (Bob)

Robert "Bob" L. Cook, 78, of Peoria passed away on June 9, 2007 of bladder cancer. He lived in Peoria all his life attending Peoria public schools. He graduated from Peoria High School in 1947. While in high school, he was active in Future Farmers of America, Letterman Club, and playing sports. He played football and basketball all four years. As a graduating senior, Bob received the Athletic Award for his participation in many sports. After graduation, he joined his father in the farming industry until being drafted into the Army in 1951. He was sent to Korea and was there until his discharge in 1952. After his service, Bob returned to Peoria and took over the family farm. He raised mostly cotton. Additional crops included alfalfa, wheat, and some vegetables. At one time his family operation was over 3,000 acres. At this time his son Mark was in partnership with him. Bob was born and raised in Peoria, never wanting to live anywhere else. He was an active member of the Arizona Farm Bureau, Arizona Cotton Growers Association, Peoria Rod and Gun Club, sponsor and coach of Little League, and attended Peoria Presbyterian Church. In 1981, Bob was appointed to the Salt River Project council and served in that capacity for 26 years. He also enjoyed camping and traveling. Bob was preceded in death by his daughter Debbie Cook Powell and son, Mark. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Helen, son, Craig (Maryanne), grandchildren, Patty, Jonathan, and Craigthomas Cook of Belgrade, Montana, son-in-law, Craig Powell (Diane), grandchildren, Mackenzie, Zachary, and Laveen Powell, all of Phoenix, granddaughter Danielle (Daniel), great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Anabelle Harman, all of Split, Croatia, and sister, Wilma McDonald of Phoenix. A celebration of life service was held on Saturday, June 16, 2007 at Heritage Funeral Chapel, 6830 W. Thunderbird Rd, Peoria. At the request of the family, please dress casual. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Peoria Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 96 Peoria, AZ 85380-0096 or to Hospice of the Valley, 9720 W. Peoria, AZ 85345 Published in The Arizona Republic from 6/13/2007 - 6/15/2007.