Capt. Charles Michael Cook U.S. Air Force, Retired

6/28/38 ~ 9/4/11

Charles Michael Cook was born in Catonsville, Maryland to Millard and Eleanor Cook. A graduate of Mount St. Joseph’s College and Loyola University of Baltimore, Charles’ scholastic foundation was established under the tutorship of the Jesuits. Charles was an exceptional athlete, earning the title of Maryland State Wrestling Champion. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1960. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from The University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Degree of Associate in Arts from Allan Hancock College at Santa Maria, California. After earning a Master of Business Administration Degree from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois, Charles accepted a commission as a United States Air Force Officer. His military career was focused in the two main areas of Medical Services and Senior Officer Management. His many military awards include the Highest Distinction of Air Force Officer Training School as Distinguished Graduate, The Meritorious Service Medal, The Air Force Commendation Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. He also received Honor Graduate Diplomas from Air University Squadron Officer School, and USAF Sheppard Technical Training Center Medical Service School. Charles retired as a USAF Captain after 25 Honorable years of military service. An avid fisherman, Charles shared his love of watersports and boating with his wife, Olivia, their 4 children, and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Charles’ military career enabled him to take his family traveling and living all over the world. The Cook children’s introduction to many world cultures, peoples, and languages were a notable accomplishment for both Charles and Olivia. After Charles’ retirement from the military, Charles was a certificated Special Education High School teacher. He also served on the Board of the San Antonio Chapter of the American Red Cross and was an active member of Saint Monica’s Catholic Parish, the Knights of Columbus, and Bugles Across America. Charles is survived by his wife, Olivia M. Cook; son Malcolm Lenny Cook, USAF Lt. Col, Ret. and daughter-in-law Joanne Cook; daughters Melissa A. Cruz, Stefani Y. Holden and son-in-law Christopher Holden, and Victoria A. Caudle and son-in-law Douglas B. Caudle; 9 adult grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; and brother Lee Cook. A visitation will be held Sunday, September 11, 2011 from 2:00 until 4:00 P.M. at Colonial Funeral Home.