John Harrison Cook

John Harrison Cook, 80, a lifelong resident of the Miller Beach area of Gary, IN, died Oct. 29, 2018, from ALS disease. At the time of his death, he was a resident at Addison Pointe Health Center in Chesterton. Mr. Cook is survived by his sister, Fae (nee Cook) Wewe; an aunt, Jane (nee Costello) Caruso; nieces Jeanette McVicker and Karen Candiano (Tim); nephews William Cook (Becky), Robert Cook (Ronda) and Henry Cook (Chris) and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Mildred Cook, and a brother, Henry Cook (Carol). Mr. Cook graduated from William A. Wirt High School in 1957 and attended both Valparaiso and Indiana universities. His talent in graphic design eventually led him to the advertising department at the former H. Gordon & Sons department store in Gary; he became its advertising manager in 1965, serving a decade in that position. John’s creativity manifested itself in many other ways, including magnificent Christmas decorations and beautifully wrapped packages in the family home, so notable that the Post-Tribune ran a story about his lavish holiday creations. Family members and friends will remember John’s love of Broadway musicals, Hollywood films, ancient history and scrapbooking. He frequently organized trips to Chicago on the South Shore for his young nieces, nephews, and other family members to visit the museums, and to see musical and film openings during the heyday of the 60s and 70s. Meet Me in St. Louis, Kiss Me Kate and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers were among his personal favorites, and he always included the soundtrack as part of the excursion package. John also compiled meticulous scrapbooks from 1960 to 1990, documenting family history, set within the context of the changing culture, long before this became a popular hobby. John’s love of the dunes around Miller Beach and the exquisite sycamore trees in the area greatly inspired him. He was a regular walker along Lake Street, Grand Boulevard and Marquette Park and made friends and acquaintances through these daily journeys. A lover of public libraries, he was a frequent visitor to the Miller branch. John was a devoted caregiver to his parents in their failing years, though his generosity touched the hearts of many others; his compassion extended to animals, especially dogs. No services are scheduled. Those wishing to honor John Cook’s memory might consider a donation in his name to the Northwest Indiana Humane Society, Lake County animal control and adoption, Lake County Public Library, or Dunes Hospice. Burns Funeral Home (Hobart) entrusted with arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com.

John Harrison Cook

July 23, 1938 - October 29, 2018