Kirsten K. Cook

Kirsten Kee Cook of Surprise, AZ – formerly of Colorado Springs, CO and Olney, MD passed away recently from complications from a stroke she suffered in March. She is survived by her husband Jack, of 49 years; her sister Kathleen and nephew Charles of Houston, her niece Helen of Crawfordsville, AR, her nieces Kelly and Kimberly from the Los Angeles area, as well numerous relatives and friends around the country.

At a time when politics plays such dominant role in our society, Kirsten would discuss the issues with the best of them. Born in Olney, MD on June 2, 1940, she enjoyed quite a background. When she was 12, her family moved to South America where her father was assigned as the general attaché for the American Embassy. While her dad “took care of business”, her mother was in charge of planning embassy parties. She had many fond memories of Montevideo and longed to return for a visit.

Her grandfather was a Member of Congress from WV who chaired the House Foreign Affairs Committee. After his death, her grandmother was appointed to fill his position and was reelected seven times. Upon her retirement, her dad ran and was elected to serve four terms. During this period – when nepotism was considered an asset – Kirsten served as his administrative assistant.

After his retirement Kirsten went to work at the Social Security Administration in MD. Not being sufficiently challenged, she became office administrator for a genetics research laboratory at the National Institutes of Health in Washington, DC. But politics was in her blood. MCI was in need of someone with legislative acumen and background and sent out a call. Kirsten accepted this new challenge and went to work for their vice president of Government relations.

When Jack was transferred to Colorado, Kirsten “retired” and devoted her time to the “joys of her life”, her nieces, nephews and friends.

Kirsten’s love of music brought her to the Paul Hill Chorale, one of the country’s premier vocal groups where she sang for 15 years. During this period she had the privilege to perform with many luminaries including Victor Borge, Danny Thomas, Neville Mariner, John Denver, and Garrison Keillor. In Colorado she sang with the Colorado Springs Chorale. In Arizona she sang with the Grand Singers and was selected to lead the choir at Grace Community Church.

Kirsten will be sorely missed, but she will ever remain in the hearts, thoughts and prayers of all she came in contact with. Until we meet again, we wish you “Fair winds and following seas”.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of the Valley 1510 E. Flower St. Phoenix, AZ 85014 or Grace Community Church 16165 W. Mountain View Blvd. Surprise, AZ 85374. Condolences can be left at www.surprisefuneralcare.com