Donald P. Cook, age 87, of Ventura, CA passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones on January 15, 2023. Don was born in Huntington Park, CA to Doc and Helen Cook on April 21, 1935.
Don is survived by his children, Vicki Habener, Michelle Sweeten, Bob Cook, and Paul Cook. Additionally, he is survived by 10 Grandchildren, 17 Great-Grandchildren and 3 Great-Great Grandchildren, as well as countless others, being that his go to introduction was always “Call me Grandpa”. These numbers do not include the many others he considered his family, let alone his friends.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Doc and Helen Cook, his brother, Al Cook, wife Jaqueline, daughter Lorna Jean and 4 grandchildren.
Don graduated from Ventura High School in 1952, after which he joined the Air Force and was a Veteran of the Korean War. He worked for his father at Cook Stabilizers and later worked in the oil field for Tri-State Oil Tool Industries Incorporated, among other various jobs. He had many hobbies in his life such as tinkering in the garage, woodworking, making unique items for friends and family, and collecting coins, to name a few. You could also find him at various car shows with his beloved 1952 Buick Roadmaster or at one of the many bowling alley’s playing in leagues throughout the years. Don coached his son’s teams when they participated in The Ventura Little League and was also a member of the local Ventura Kiwanis Club for many years. Some of his special talents included always being available for a hug as well as the ability to provide a witty or quirky comment at the drop of a dime. Additionally, you were all but guaranteed to find him having Saturday morning breakfast at Art’s Corner Cafe. We would love to extend a special thank you to Art and his crew for embracing Don, as he truly looked forward to his sometimes daily visits to Art’s Corner Cafe. We would also like to extend a special thank you to Maile, who was there to care for him throughout the years. The words “Thank You” are not enough to express our gratitude to each of you.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that memorial donations be made to a charity of your choice.
Friends and Family are invited to his Graveside service at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at 2pm. With celebration following the service at his residence. Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.