Joseph A. Cook

He was the loving husband of Jane for 18 years. He is also survived by his son, Joey (Michelle) Cook; grandson, Keean Schunneman; stepdaughter, Julia Rizzo; sister-in-law, Eileen Cook; nephew, Patrick (Lori) Cook; grandnephews, Thomas and Jack; niece, Susan Cook; and many other beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas, and his sister, Barbara.

After graduating from St. Mary of Redford High School, Joe enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served two tours in Vietnam, where he was wounded twice and awarded numerous medals for valor, including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. Over a distinguished 31-year career, Joe served in assignments in Guam and Hawaii, and as NCOIC of the Marine Detachment at the American Embassy in Bolivia.

In 1986, he became the project officer for the Shoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon (SMAW), a role of exceptional responsibility. Notably, Joe was the only enlisted Marine to hold such a position, as it was typically reserved for commissioned officers. During Operation Desert Storm, he volunteered to train U.S. Army personnel in the use of the SMAW. He later played a key role in ensuring future weapons systems adhered to the principles of Manpower Integration.

Joe retired from the Marine Corps with the rank of Master Sergeant. He continued to serve in a civilian capacity with Booz Allen Hamilton, where he shared his expertise in support of military programs before working at the Marine Corps War Fighting Lab. After relocating from Virginia to Michigan, he worked as a Project Manager with U.S. Army TACOM, where he eventually retired.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joe had a deep love for boating and travel. He and his family spent many winters in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, forming lasting friendships. He also cherished trips to Hawaii, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Alaska. For the past 7 years, Joe and Jane have spent the winters in a condo on the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Canaveral, Florida, watching the rocket launches from the beach.

In his final days, Joe reflected on his life with gratitude, saying, “Jane, we lived a wonderful life.”

Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 29, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152.

An in state will occur Monday, March 30, from 10:00 am to 10:30 am at St. Thomas a'Becket Catholic Church, 555 S Lilley Rd, Canton, MI 48188, followed by a funeral mass beginning at 10:30 am, where he will receive military honors. Joseph will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or to the Wounded Warrior Project.