Bill passed away January 21,2019 after a long illness. He was born to Merle and Louise Barnes Cook in Lebanon, OR on October 18, 1945 and grew up in Harrisburg on his family’s farm. After graduating from Harrisburg High School, he studied at Clark College, and eventually began his career in the commercial fire protection business. He reveled in the great camaraderie and many friendships he made with colleagues and clients. In 1983, he was introduced to the love of his life, Karen Cook. They married in 1985 and Bill became step-father to Karen’s four girls. He took to the role with enthusiasm, always willing to provide advice on car troubles or lend a few dollars to get them out of a jam. He was a caring man who was always ready to joke and tease those he loved. He and Karen were happily inseparable and spent much of their free time boating or skiing. Bill was a hero to Karen as she fought a battle with Alzheimer’s, selflessly providing the support and love she needed to live with her disease.
Bill leaves his beloved wife Karen, sister Darlene (Frank) Ellis and brother Robert (Bob) Cook, nephews Scott Ellis, Chris Cook, Blair Cook, and their families, as well as nieces Kandace Hanks, Amanda Adeniji and their families.
He was loved by his step-daughters, Brynn (Mike) Telkamp, Regan (Chris) Hurley, Colleen (Kristen) Grobstok and Heather Cole and especially by his cherished grandchildren, Johan and Jack Telkamp, Jane and George Hurley, and Hans and Kaia Grobstok.
He will be laid to rest in Harrisburg, OR alongside his mother and father. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association of Washington in Bill’s name
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Alzheimer's Association of Washington, Washington
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