Donna Jean Cook

Donna Jean (Bird) Cook was born on May 11, 1927 in Battle Creek, MI to Ralph M. Bird and Viola H. Jolliff. She passed on June 5, 2023 at St. Anne’s home in Fort Wayne, IN. She is survived by her son Timothy Cook (Jacqueline), daughter-in-law Linda Cook, as well grandchildren, Benjamin Cook, Brian Cook (Amy), Amy Garland (Ty), Sarah Slater (Scott), Jeffrey Cook (Rachael), Deborah Summit (Scott), and Miranda Harris (Shawn).  She was blessed with numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Cook (1966), her longtime companion, Burt Neff, sons James (Benny) Cook, Roger Cook and granddaughters Denice Cook and Missy Cook, a brother Ralph Bird and sister Doris Bird.

Donna worked at Kellogg’s for nearly 40 years where she met Burt after both were widowed. Donna and Burt enjoyed spending time with their fellow 25-year club retirees. They spent decades traveling North America in their motor home enjoying every minute exploring new places and making new friends. Though Donna loved her travels, her greatest joys came from her family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother. She attended countless games, recitals, graduations, baptisms, weddings and holiday events celebrating the lives of those she loved.  She was the ultimate provider, making certain her family’s needs were always met.

Donna saw the positive and was steadfast in her ability to continue living fully despite of the tragic losses in her life.   The family aspires to reach her longevity with the positive outlook with which she approached every day.

Funeral service scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Monday, June 12, 2023 at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.  Interment will take place following the service at Memorial Park Cemetery.  Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org