Donald F. Cook

Donald F Cook, 89, of Deer River, MN passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on May 13, 2023 surrounded by family.

Donald (Don) Fredrick Cook was born in Chicago, IL to parents Fredrick and Bernice Cook on May 25, 1933. After high school, Don enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served his country during the Korean War. Upon returning from service, Don married his wife, and mother of his four children, Theresa. Don started his productive work career as a draftsman at the Western Electric Company in Chicago.

However, his dream was to live at the lake. In 1965, Don and Theresa purchased their first resort, Long Bow Resort on Leech Lake, MN. A few short years later, they purchased Lakewood Lodge on Big Sand Lake, MN. It was at Lakewood Lodge that Don and Theresa would raise their four boys providing them with a lifetime of country living memories. All four boys graduated from Deer River High School. Throughout his time at Lakewood Lodge, Don owned and operated a school bus for the Deer River School District. He spent countless hours telling his sons what a good driver it took operate a school bus. During the winters, he completed many construction projects for many of the neighbors. He also took a great deal of pride in being a volunteer Fire Warden for the United States Forest. Upon retirement, Don and Theresa moved to a home on Portage Lake, MN.

In retirement, they enjoyed traveling to Arizona and bowling. At the pinnacle of their bowling endeavors, Don and Theresa were bowling up to 4 days a week, coaching children’s teams, and traveling throughout the Midwest to bowling tournaments. Don’s favorite sport was football and his beloved Minnesota Vikings which he enjoyed watching with his boys. For nearly 60 years he waited patiently for the Vikings to win a Superbowl.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bob, sisters Nancy and Michelle, his first wife Theresa, and sons Tim and Scott.

Don is survived by his ex-wife, Shirley; son, Dale (Lynda); son, Mark (Dawn); grandson, Dawson; granddaughter, Rochelle (Justin Lewis) and his great granddaughters Kendall and Layla.

As per Don’s wishes, a private memorial service will be held at the Pine Grove Cemetery, Max MN. Arrangements are with the Carroll Family Funeral Home of Deer River. The family has requested no gifts, but instead take a youngster bowling who might not otherwise get the chance to go bowling, in honor of Don.