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S. Gilbert Cook
May 1916 November 2010
Cook S pic for obit

S. Gilbert Cook passed away peacefully at Casa de Modesto with his two daughters by his side on Nov. 8 at the age of 94.

Gilbert was born in Eugene, Ore. to Thad and Kathryn Cook in 1916. He served his country in the National Guard from 1934-1937, and graduated in 1939 from Washington State University. He later earned Lifetime Credentials in both Vocational and Secondary Education. He was also a master sheet metal craftsman and he employed this skill in his teaching as well as remaining an active sheet
metal worker throughout his career. He specialized in Industrial Arts Adult Education, teaching in Yakima, Wash. at Perry Technical Institute and in Spokane, Wash. at the Trade Technical School. Later, he accepted a position as director for Vocational and Adult Education at Everett, Wash. Junior College. In 1957, he relocated to California and taught for the Modesto City Schools until retirement.
Gilbert was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing, which his grandfather taught him to do as a young boy. His reverent appreciation for the beauty of the natural world was shared with people wherever he went. He was active in sports during school and continued this interest along with his many other hobbies, including camping, golf, gardening and playing cards.

In 1940, he wed his beloved sweetheart, Louise, and they were happily married for 66 years. Together, they always took great joy in entertaining and cooking for family and friends at home, especially enjoying their California vacation beach house for many years. A highlight of their retirement was traveling with their recreational vehicle throughout North America and taking a long dreamed-of trip to Hong Kong. He had many interests, but most of all, he loved people, cherishing his wife, children
and grandchildren, his extended family and his many treasured friends from all walks of life. He lived with optimism, humor, joy, generosity, compassion and wisdom.
Gilbert is survived by his loving daughters, Kathryn J. Learned of Santa Rosa, Calif. and Caroline J. Jones of Fairfax, Calif.; and his adoring grandchildren, Vance H. Reese, Kimberlee Julianne Reese, Carmen M. Colemere and Nikolas J. Jones. He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise K. Cook in 2006 and his parents.
Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to Casa de Modesto, 1745 Eldena Way, Modesto, CA 95350.
A memorial Celebration of Life service will be held 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 27 at Casa de Modesto.
Please share your memories at www.allenmortuary.com.