Gary Duane Cook

Gary Duane Cook, age 87, passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, at UPMC- WM.

Born on December 4, 1938, in Springview, Nebraska, he was the son of K. Duane and Frances (Snider) Cook, the fifth of seven children. Gary married Janet Zastrow on August 13, 1966, and they were married for 39 years until her passing on August 20, 2005. Gary was preceded in death by his sisters; Vallee Peterson and Iris Dee Barnes; and an infant brother, Kaye Don Cook.

Gary was raised in a Christian home with a family that had a strong emphasis on the importance of education. He enrolled in Evangel College in 1957 and graduated in 1961. During his time at Evangel, he served as president of the Freshman and Sophomore class.

Gary completed a Masters and Doctorate in Theatre Arts from the University of Nebraska, where he and Janet continued to reside and teach for nine years. In 1975, Gary applied for a faculty position at Frostburg State College (now Frostburg State University) and joined the faculty that fall semester. Gary participated in the planning and design of the FSU Performing Arts Center. He described that one of his greatest professional achievements was in the planning and development of the Mass Communication major at FSU. Gary retired as Professor from FSU in 2001 after completing 26 years of service to the University.

In retirement, Gary and Janet continued to focus on what they had always enjoyed: antiques, art, and rare books. They also traveled extensively to experience other places and cultures and enjoyed spending time with close friends and relatives.

Gary is survived by one brother, Kent Cook; and two sisters, Mona Cline and Virginia Voy Moore; as well as several nieces and nephews; and numerous loved ones throughout the country.

Friends will be received at the Scarpelli Funeral Home, P.A., 108 Virginia Avenue, Cumberland on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.

A funeral service will be held on at St. Paul's Lutheran Church on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Ryan Viands officiating.

Interment will be in Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, Iowa.