Mr. Norman Edward Cook

Ed was born on February 11, 1943, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Norman Cook and Norma Clare Eckright. He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1961 before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy from 1962 until 1968.

On April 10, 1993, Ed married the love of his life, Jeanne Cook, at Rose Price Hall in Pembroke Pines, Florida.

Aviation was the defining passion of Ed’s life. At just 15 years old, he completed his first solo flight, marking the beginning of a journey that would span nearly seven decades. He went on to build an extraordinary career in aviation and served as Chief Pilot for Amerijet International for more than 35 years, earning the respect of colleagues throughout the industry for his leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to safety. During his distinguished career, he contributed to advancements in civil aviation, including involvement in the development and implementation of zero-gravity flight operations.

While his professional accomplishments were impressive, Ed found his greatest fulfillment in sharing his love of flight with others. Ed was a proud member of the QB’s, a distinguished organization of accomplished aviators, where he formed many lasting friendships and enjoyed the fellowship of fellow pilots. Following his retirement, he continued inspiring future aviators as a flight instructor at American Flyers in Pompano Beach, Florida. Through his patience, expertise, and dedication, he trained and mentored countless pilots, leaving a lasting impact on generations of aviators. His legacy lives on not only in the skies he flew, but also in the many lives he touched and the pilots whose dreams he helped make possible.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Norman Cook and Norma Clare Eckright Cook; his brother, William Cook; and his son, Sean Kelley.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne Cook; his siblings, Sally Roth Meeker, David Cook, Jeannie Cook, Francis Cook and children, Sarah Cook, Paul Cook, Ejola Cook, Eric Kelley, and Laura Kelley; as well as numerous grandchildren Madison Kelley Wilcox, Connor Kelley, Mackenzie Cook, Breanna Kelley, Mackayla Cook, Lawson Cook, Mackenna Cook,Lilian Kelley, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.