David Michael Cook

David Michael Cook was born on November 26, 1950, and passed away peacefully at home on April 1, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, his beloved dog Tillie, and under the care of hospice. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Katie Cook of Shawnee, Kansas, and his brother, Dennis Cook of Seneca, Missouri.

Dave was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who loved his family deeply. He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Mette Cook; his four children: Kevin Cook and wife Grace of Linn, Missouri; Keri Carl and Bill of Tonganoxie, Kansas; Bobby Coates and wife Andrea of Shawnee, Kansas; and Erik Coates and wife Angela of Shawnee, Kansas. He was immensely proud of his seven grandchildren, in age order: Alex, Courtney, Hailey, Hannah, Gracie, Evan, and Gavin.

He is also survived by his siblings: Danny Cook and wife Karen, Brenda McKenzie and husband Jim, and Dallas Cook and wife Sherry, along with a large and loving family of nephews, nieces, cousins, and in-laws who all loved, admired, and looked up to him—including his mother-in-law, Inger, who was simply Mom to him.

Dave had a personality bigger than life that could fill any room, and he was especially known for his unforgettable sense of humor. Dave proudly served as a firefighter for 23 years with Consolidated Fire District No. 2 ofJohnson County. He was also a talented mechanic, woodworker, musician, and songwriter. He was always willing to help friends work on their cars, spent time working in a cabinetry shop, and loved playing the guitar. He could play just about any instrument and had a beautiful voice. One of his favorite events was attending the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival in Winfield, Kansas.

Dave was also a regular at his favorite Chinese restaurant and always had room for dessert. His grandchildren will always cherish memories of sharing a sweet treat with their Poppy in the “ice cream chair.” Most of all, Dave loved the Lord and held tightly to his faith through every season of life.

A service honoring Dave’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on April 11, 2026, at Crossroads Christian Church in Shawnee, a place where he felt deeply at home and appreciated the love he found there. A short graveside service for family and close friends will follow at Johnson County Memorial Gardens.

Dave will be missed beyond words.

Rest in peace, Dave. You are deeply loved.