Amory L. “Al” Cook passed away February 8th, 2020, in Bremerton at the age of 99. Amory was born September 16th, 1920 in Dyersburg, Tennessee to William and Mollie Cook, he was the youngest of seven children. He was raised on a farm and educated in Dyersburg. In 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy because he did not want to be drafted into the Army because he did not like to march. He served on three different ships in the South Pacific. While assigned to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard he met Betty A. Hickox, a Bremerton native. He and Betty married May 27th, 1944 in San Francisco. He received the Purple Heart for his injuries sustained when his ship, the USS Aulick (DD-569), was attacked by Japanese aircraft towards the end of the war. He made his way back to Bremerton before getting treatment for his injuries and spent three months in the Bremerton Naval Hospital recovering. The reason for his determination, a new baby girl, Laura Ann. Eventually Al and Betty had five daughters.
Al worked several jobs following his Navy service, but in 1953 established his own business, Kitsap Auto Parts. From a little store on 6th Street, he built up his business to five stores. He was known for his fairness and honesty while in business. After his retirement, he volunteered many hours at Peace Lutheran Church where he and Betty were founding members. He joined the Kiwanis Club and was a member for over 50 years serving in many capacities including as Lieutenant Governor. Later, he built over five hundred birdhouses that he donated to charities including his grandchildren’s schools. Al and Betty were season ticket holders to University of Washington Husky football for over 50 years and bought Seahawks season tickets for many years. At the time of his death, he was still a devoted Husky, Mariner, and Seahawks fan. Betty and Al also attended countless concerts, games, and activities for their children and grandchildren.
Betty preceded him in death in 2008. His parents, siblings, and an infant daughter, Charlotte Jo Cook, also preceded him. He is survived by his daughters: Laura Bethke of Gig Harbor, Barbara Shock of Bremerton, Debra (Rich) Rucker of Tacoma, and Elizabeth Jo (Mark) Bader of Seattle. He has nine grandchildren: Annie (Frank) Gambardella, Misty (Chris) Shock Rule, Darby Bethke, Zachary (Stoncia) Bethke, Vanessa Rucker, Gabe (Allie) Rucker, Sam Rucker, Lauren Berry and Ryan (Lydia) Berry. Also surviving are eight great grandchildren; Paige Hall, Avery Gambardella, Myla Gambardella, Penny Rule, Kiersten Bethke, Chloe Bethke, Milo Bethke, and Charlotte Moore. Donations in memory of Amory L. “Al” Cook may be made to Seattle Children’s Hospital in Seattle or Peace Lutheran School in Bremerton.
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