Dennis Arlen Cook

Dennis Arlen Cook, age 77, of Howell, Michigan, passed away on February 2, 2026.

Dennis was born on October 2, 1948, to the late Arlen and Avis Cook. He was raised in Trenton, Michigan, his beloved "Downriver", and graduated from Trenton High School with the Class of 1966 and graduated from Conquers Bible College Class of 1972 in Portland, Oregon. He was ordained minister in the United Pentecostal Church International, serving in various capacities for over 55 years.

He served as Assistant Pastor of Christian Lighthouse in Mt. Clemens; Pastor of Christian Lighthouse in Sutherlin, Oregon and in 1989 became the founding pastor of Crossroads Apostolic Church in Howell, where he faithfully served for many years. After retiring from active pastoring, he continued to serve the church as Bishop, remaining a steady and trusted presence. He also served as Bishop of New Birth Church in the City of Flint with retired Pastor Anthony Harris. Alongside his ministry, Dennis worked for the United States Postal Service, retiring in 2014.

More than anything, Dennis loved people. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone, often turning it toward the goodness of God and how faith had shaped his life. Sharing his testimony came as naturally to him as breathing, not in a preachy way, but through stories, laughter, and genuine connection.

Dennis had a sharp sense of humor and a deep love of reading. He enjoyed old radio programs and liked to joke that he stayed forever 39, much like his favorite comedian, Jack Benny. Making people laugh brought him real joy, and he had a gift for lifting spirits with both wit and warmth.

Dennis met the love of his life, Jo Ann, at a church revival in 1980. He was preaching, and she was in attendance. They were married on November 20, 1981, and shared many years of love, faith, and partnership. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jo Ann Cook.

He is also survived by his children, Stephen Jason (Renee) Ashe, Aaron Lee Cook, and Sarah (Craig) Hetherington; his grandchildren, Greaydon Hetherington, Greyson Cook, Maycee Cook, and Harrison Hetherington; and his siblings, Brenda (Bruce) Leaman and Gary (Carol) Cook.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Everett Matthew Hetherington.

Dennis will be remembered for his steady faith, his kindness, his humor, and his deep love for both God and people.

A private, family burial, will take place at Arborcrest Memorial Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 12:00 PM, at Crossroads Apostolic Church in Howell, Michigan. 144 Schroeder Park Dr., Howell, MI 48843.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in his name to Crossroads Apostolic Church. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com