Edward Cook

Lt. Col. Edward F. Cook (ret.)

Resident of San Jose

Edward, 90, passed away very unexpectedly at his home on Dec. 12th. He had a long and wonderful life and he was happiest when he was with his family & friends. He especially enjoyed telling stories of his early childhood, military exploits and life experiences with his beloved wife of 56 years Helene (Flory) Cook, and his three children.

Edward was born in Colusa, CA, Sept. 21, 1920. He grew up surrounded by the rice fields his father managed and he graduated from Colusa HS in 1937. He attended UC Davis and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Agriculture in 1941.

Edward soon enlisted in the Army Air Corp at the beginning of WWII. He served with distinction during the war, and was a courageous C47 cargo pilot who flew many dangerous missions of critically needed supplies "over the hump" from India to China. He also served in Korea, and he and his family were stationed all over the world during his 24 year career. Edward retired as a Lt. Col. In the USAF. After his retirement, he had a second career as a teamster for 13 years.

Edward was most certainly a member of the "the greatest generation" who served his country with great courage and personal sacrifice and with equally great humility. To his family he will always be a hero. He was fiercely independent, and happiest living alone until the end. He was a quiet, gentle, and forgiving person who was also very generous and thoughtful.

Edward is survived by his son John Cook, his daughter Martha (Cook) Ira, his six grand children Shannon, Ryan, Chad, Robert, Christopher, Jennifer, and several great grand children. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Helene in 1996, and his son Donald who passed away unexpectedly in 1992. We have many wonderful memories of Edward and he will be missed very much. Friends are invited to join the family for a celebration of Ed's life on Sat. Jan 15. Contact the family at 408 323-8879.