Billy Gene Cook

Billy Gene Cook, age 89 of Albion passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on June 8, 2017 at Medilodge of Marshall, Michigan. Billy was born August 28, 1927 to George and Leona (Miller) Cook in Piggott, Arkansas.

Billy served in the United States 5th Army Air Corps 82nd Tactical Rcn Squad from 1945 to 1947 and was stationed in Tokyo, Japan. While stationed there, he was a photographic lab tech responsible for the aerial photography of the aftermath of the WWII. After servicing his country, he came back home to Albion, he married Virginia Jean Kellogg on October 29, 1947 where they remained together for 69 years.

Billy and Lorraine Courtright started a dump truck business building roads in various parts of central Michigan and worked at the Albion Gas Co. as a furnace technician. In 1951, Billy was hired by Eaton Corp. Fluid Power Division in Marshall and retired May 1, 1981 after 30 years of service.

The younger Billy enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping where they had a place up north in Baldwin, MI. He also had a love of cars, enjoyed woodworking, lawn care and being in his garage.

Billy is survived by his wife, Virginia of almost 70 years; daughters, Sherry (Ed) Winter of Olivet,

Sue (Ken) Ott of Albion; grandson Tracy Ott and granddaughter, Lacey (Mark) Michels of Albion; great granddaughters, Lauren and Allison.

At his request, a cremation has been done and a private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, he asked that donations be made to Hospice.

Arrangements entrusted to J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, Michigan 49224

To leave online messages of condolence for the family, please visit www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com