Claire McGowan Cook

Claire McGowan Cook, age 24, passed away after a long illness on August 24, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Claire was born on November 2, 1992 to Thomas and Nancy (Martin) Cook. She and her older sister Elizabeth always shared a very special bond. This bond only deepened when Elizabeth married Russell and gave birth to Catherine who would become the light of Claire's life. Claire graduated summa cum laude from the University of New Orleans with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. She continued her studies in history at King's College London with plans to pursue an academic career. Claire had many hobbies, interests, and talents, but what she loved most were her books. She was a voracious reader with broad interests and generously shared her knowledge and views with others. Claire's devotion and loyalty to her friends were both remarkable and reciprocated. Over the years and especially in recent months, their love for Claire remained a centerpiece in her life. Claire held her friends close at heart and they served as a source of strength at all times. Claire leaves to cherish her memory, her loving and devoted parents, Thomas and Nancy Cook; her beloved sister Elizabeth Lapeze (Russell) and her sweet niece Catherine Claire Lapeze. She is also survived by her two grandmothers, Rita McGowan Martin and Helen Schnieders Cook as well as many uncles, aunts, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her two grandfathers, Robert D. Martin and Harry F. Cook. Family and friends are invited to attend services on Saturday September 2, 2017 at Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home, 3827 Canal Street. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM followed by a memorial service at 12:15 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Claire's name to the Mayo Clinic Bipolar Disorder Biobank. This will support much needed research to help diagnose and treat this illness. Learn more at goo.gl/47koBx, click "give now" select "Center for Individualized Medicine" and designate Bipolar Disorder Biobank or call (855) 852-8129 for assistance. Arrangements by JACOB SCHOEN & SON FUNERAL HOME. Condolences may be left at www.schoenfh.com.