William Edward Cook

William Bill or "Cookie" E. Cook Jr.,95 of Riverview Park, Muhlenberg passed away peacefully at Reading Hospital on Sunday July 26th after a brief illness. He was born on February 18, 1925 in West Lawn, PA to William E. Cook Sr. and Verna (Buck) Cook. He was a 1943 graduate of Wilson High School, West Lawn, PA.

After graduation he enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces at the age of 18 where he found his second love, flying. He flew a P-51 Mustang in World War II among other aircraft. He was very humble about his experiences during the war and was always hesitant to describe missions or his acts of heroism. He served his country honorably in the Air Force, and he entered into the Air Force National Guard after his active duty service. After 30 years of duty with the Air Force National Guard, Bill retired as a Colonel. Throughout the course of his military career, Bill logged over 3,000 hours behind the yokes of his planes. During his time in the military he flew many missions to different parts of the world.

As a civilian, Bill worked at Western Electric for over 30 years, retiring as a Supervisor. Bill used his two weeks of vacation every year for his service in the Air National Guard. He was a man of routine, so much that he insisted on buying a hot dog and a bowl of chicken soup from the cafeteria everyday instead of packing a lunch even though his wife is an excellent cook and would have gladly packed his lunch.

He was a devout Christian and attended Atonement Lutheran Church faithfully for almost seven decades where he was on an usher team, worked the sound and volunteered weekly for many years to help with the bulletins.

Bill was a member of the Silver Swallows, the Flying Dutchman Ski Club, the Young Republicans, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He was an active man who enjoyed skiing and tennis.

Bill was a thinker. If there was a problem, he would light up a cigarette, slowly study the problem, and always come up with a creative solution. His engineering background led to some feats of engineering at home much to his family's chagrin like the time his wife came home from a walk and found him and an extension ladder tied 30 feet in the air to a pine tree while he cut off the lower limbs.

Bill had a sweet tooth and a secret supply of Tastykakes and Peanut Chews at home.

He was from the Greatest Generation and like that generation he volunteered, worked hard, loved God, his family and his country. He would offer to help anyone. When things got crazy Bill was there with his, "Son of a Gun!" or "Oh,boy!" He had an awesome secret recipe for his signature drink, a Manhattan. Bill often told jokes after which he laughed louder than the people who were listening. He and his wife showed their prowess with swing dancing during parties and family gatherings. He was a gentleman who would open the door for you or help you with your coat. When you were spending time with him his smile would light up the room. He always made you feel as though you were the only one there.

If you attended the Sidewalk Sales in West Reading in the 90s you probably tasted one of "Bill's World Famous Hot Dogs." A favorite of many not just because of the hot dog, but because it was served with his gracious manners and smile. Bill was a fixture at his daughter and son-in-law's store, Casual Concepts in West Reading, PA where he helped with maintenance of the building and engineering new fixtures, plumbing, and electrical work. He also helped his son with numerous renovations at his house. One day in particular as they were replacing the windows in the living room, they noticed water damage to the wall. They decided they needed to remove the entire exterior wall and replace it. It didn't matter that it was during winter and snowing.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife H. Irene (Gartner) Cook to whom he married in 1951. They met at the gas station where they both worked. After the prodding of a co-worker, "Oh, Just ask her out!" Bill asked Irene out on their first date. Bill was excited to show her his new car, and her disappointed response, "Oh, it's a Ford." did not deter him. They just celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary this year with friends and family. Bill will be remembered by his children: James E. and Tammy Cook of Muhlenberg and Cynthia L. wife of Michael Lorish of Muhlenberg; his granddaughter Natalie K. Cook; his brother Harry Donald, husband of Darlene Cook of West Wyomissing and several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by an infant son, Robert, his beloved son William "Billy" K. Cook and his older brother John "Jack" Cook. He will be sorely missed by family and friends. Those who knew him imagine he is currently at the pearly gates bartering with Saint Peter because he doesn't want the angel wings, he wants a P-51 Mustang.

In lieu of flowers, Bill's family asks that contributions in his memory be made to Atonement Lutheran Church, 5 Wyomissing Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610.

Services for Bill will be private at the convenience of his family. He will be laid to rest on the family plot in Laureldale Cemetery. Once we are able, we would love to have a service to celebrate this honorable man and his life.

The Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc. is honored to assist the Cook Family. Condolences, tributes, and fond memories may be expressed at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.