James H. Cook, age 91, of Raritan, Illinois, passed away Monday, July 6, 2020 at his home. He was born March 10, 1929 near Raritan, the son of Reggie and Addie Gearhart Cook. On August 8, 1953, he married Doris Anders in Stronghurst.
Mr. Cook was a graduate of Media High School. He served in the United States Army, and was stationed in Japan, during the Korean Conflict. He then farmed near Raritan for many years. For forty six years, he maintained the Henderson County Historical Society Museum in Raritan. He and his family also operated the Raritan Café for fifteen years.
James was a member, deacon, and elder of the Raritan Reformed Church. He had served on the boards of the former Media-Wever School System, Henderson County Farm Bureau, Stronghurst Mutual Insurance Company, and the Henderson County Health Department. He also served as Henderson County Tax Assessor for several years. He was a member of the Stronghurst American Legion and a fifty year member of the Roseville Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed his family, serving his community, taking care of the museum, and last, but not least, was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan.
Survivors include his wife, one daughter, Patricia (Terry) Frost of Omaha, NB, three sons, David Cook of Galesburg, IL, Philip Cook of Paxton, IL, Paul (Chris) Cook of Stronghurst, IL, thirteen grandchildren, and eighteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one grandchild, one brother, and two sisters.
Due to the pandemic, there will be no visitation. Private family services will be held Saturday July 11, 2020 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst. Burial will be in Raritan Cemetery, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Raritan Reformed Church and the Stronghurst-Raritan Ambulance Service. Memorials may be sent in care of Banks & Beals Funeral Home, P.O. Box 299, Stronghurst, IL 61480. Please visit James’ obituary at banksandbeals.com to sign the guest book and leave a condolence.
