Barbara Jean Cook

Barbara Jean Cook, age 69, of Ellsworth, Wisconsin, passed away on June 29, 2025.

Barbara was born on July 1, 1955, in Red Wing, Minnesota, to Melvin Myer and Margaret Pelzel. She loved growing up and enjoyed helping on the family farms in Ellsworth. She was involved in 4-H, showing her cows at the Pierce County Fair. Barbara graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1973. Staying close to her roots, Barbara was dedicated in her career as a custodian with local schools: Ellsworth High School and Hudson High School. She formed lasting memories and friendships at the schools she served.

A woman of deep faith and devotion to her family, Barbara found great joy in her children and grandchildren. She was a very creative mother who loved arts, knitting, crafts and sewing. Her life was spent helping friends and family or volunteering in her community and church. Barbara’s warm and kind soul had an affinity with the angels she collected, which reflected her love for both her faith and family. Barbara especially cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren - sharing stories, laughter, and love that will live on in their hearts.

Barbara also had a special fondness for all her pets. She enjoyed the peace and companionship of her cats, always having a soft spot for them.

She is survived by her children: Christina Cook, Shawn Cook, and Nichole Brunkhorst; her grandchildren: Jameson Spurgeon and Karlee Brunkhorst; and her nephews: Tim Myer and Dewy Henthorne.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents: Melvin and Margaret Myer, sister: Carol Myer, brother: Steven Myer, sister-in-law “Helen”, niece: Crystal and many other family and friends dear to her.

A short prayer service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday August 1, 2025, at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ W5706 WIS-72, Ellsworth, WI 54011. The celebration of life will run from 11:00 am till 2:00 pm.

Services are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ellsworth. For additional information, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-273-4421.