Alice Marie Cook

Alice Marie Cook of Montrose, Missouri passed away on September 24th, 2025. She was born October 26th, 1935, to the late George Frederick Gengler and Helen Ann Swatters Gengler. Alice was united in marriage to Cecil Cook on October 17th, 1953, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Montrose, Missouri. To this union, eight children were born. The early years of their marriage were spent in Alabama and Georgia while Cecil served in the U.S. Army and in 1955, they returned to Montrose.

Alice and Cecil loved to go camping and enjoyed many adventures together over 50 years of marriage. Alice lived a simple life and valued simple things. She loved cats and any stray that appeared was sure to find care from Alice. She had a talent for crocheting and spent hours creating beautiful afghans, each a labor of love and a lasting reminder of comfort and warmth for those she loved.

Alice was an amazing cook. Whether it was hamburger potato casserole, fried apples, cinnamon rolls or donuts, a meal made by Alice was something to remember. She was the heart of the home, always busy caring for her children. She cooked, cleaned and tended to all their needs, but also loved to take the occasional Saturday for her and Cecil to play cards with friends or go dancing. Alice loved hosting her family for any occasion, but Christmas Eve was always a staple. Generations gathered every year for lots of food, even more laughter, spirited gift exchanges and card games that Alice loved to participate in.

She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and recently became a great-great-grandmother. Through life's challenges Alice's wit and warmth never faded. Even at the end of her journey her caregivers commented on how sweet she was to all who cared for her. Her few words were those of love and humor, just days before she passed when asked by a nurse 'what can I get you', with a knowing grin Alice replied, "a million dollars."

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Cecil Cook; her children, Paul, Patty, and Jeff; her son-in-law, Mike Mitchell; and her siblings, Betty Rotert, Jim Gengler, and Ann Strum.

She is survived by her children: Debbie Vogel (Bill), Phil Cook (Lisa), Jenny Mitchell (Jerry), Chris Cook (Shannon), and Bill Cook (Julie); her daughter-in-law, Tammy Cook; her sister-in-law, Kathy Gengler; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Psalm 128: 3 & 6

"Your children will be like olive shoots around your table, may you see your children's children."

Just as the scripture promised, she lived to see her family flourish and was blessed with the joy of her children's children. Having completed her earthly race, she has now found rest in the arms of her Lord and in the company of all the loved ones whom she has missed dearly.

Until we meet again, enjoy dancing with Cecil.

The family suggests any memorial donations be given to St. Mary's School. They may be left at Hill & Son Funeral Home or at the church the day of Mass.