Harmon "Vern" Cook

Harmon "Vern" Cook obituary

Harmon "Vern" Cook

Harmon Cook Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lunning Funeral Chapel on Aug. 30, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Harmon "Vern" Cook Jr., 76, of West Melbourne, Florida, died Thursday, August 28, 2025, unexpectedly in Burlington, Iowa.

Born on February 16, 1949, in Bluefield, West Virginia, he was the son of Harmon and Sallie (Haymes) Cook Sr. He married Kay King and later divorced. On June 30, 2001, in Burlington, Iowa he married "the woman of his dreams" Pamela Cutright.

Vern was a 1967 graduate of Pocahontas High School in Pocahontas, Virginia. After high school he worked for Norfolk Southern Railway until he decided to join the United States Air Force. After his service in the United States Air Force, he worked again at Norfolk Southern Railway and then obtained a bachelor's degree from Toledo Ohio University. Vern also obtained a license in private investigation. For forty-two years he worked as a private investigator until his retirement in 2014. He was a board member of Associated Detectives and Security Agencies of Illinois, and was president from 2008-2009. He was also appointed by the governor to serve as a member of the review board for violations of Licensed Detectives. He was of Baptist faith and was a lifelong member of the V.F.W.

In Vern's free time he enjoyed going fishing and golfing. He loved to cook, especially grilling on the BBQ. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan and loved watching basketball, specifically college March Madness. Vern loved living a good life in Florida but he loved nothing more than being with his friends and family, whom brought him the most joy.

He is survived by his wife Pam of West Melbourne, Florida; two daughters: Lisa (Darren) Crowder of Bolivar, Missouri and Jennifer (John) Pender of Burlington, Iowa; three granddaughters: Samantha Pender of Burlington, Iowa, Lily and Lauren Crowder of Bolivar, Missouri and sister Shirley Edwards of Starke, Florida. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son Scott Cook; sister Bobbie Jean Billings and step son Robert McKee.

Per his wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Harmon's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Harmon Cook's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Harmon Cook's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?