Richard George Cook

January 26, 1937 - May 20, 2020

Richard George Cook, age 83, of LaPorte, IN passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at LaPorte Hospital.

Private arrangements will be held at Geisen-Carlisle Funeral & Cremation at 613 Washington St., Michigan City, IN 46360 for immediate family members only.

He was born January 26, 1937 in Michigan City to George W. and Margaret (Berquist) Cook who preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Ann Cooney. On September 5^th, 1964, in Michigan City, Indiana he married Sandra Flotow who survives in LaPorte. Dick and San shared over 55 years of marriage together.

Also surviving are a daughter Debra (David) Blackie of Lecanto, Florida; son, Michael (Dee Hoehler) of LaPorte; two grandchildren Tyler and Allyson Richards both of Michigan City, IN.

Dick was a proud graduate of Elston High School in Michigan City, Valparaiso University with a B.S. in Education and an MBA from Michigan State. He worked as a teacher for the MCAS Elston High School for 4 years, was promoted to Financial Assistant at the Administration Building, then promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Business Administration for the MCAS. Dick retired from the school system in 1999. He was committed and dedicated to education for over 39 years. Upon retirement, Dick worked as a consultant for ESC for over 10 years where he continued to help school systems and their finances.

Dick’s other passion was for refereeing Indiana High School sports. The highlight of his referring career was when he was selected as Indiana State Official of the year. In addition, Dick was selected to officiate the basketball state finals on 6 different occasions. Even though Dick could no longer officiate, he continued by observing officials. His grandson continues in his footsteps as an official today.

Dick was no stranger to the community. He was a lifetime member of St. John’s United Church of Christ and served on the consistory and held the title of President. Dick served on various committees in the community throughout his lifetime including a board member of Michigan City Savings and Loan, scholarship committee and worked to organize the LaPorter Federal Credit Union.

Dick was a loving husband, father and grandfather and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial contributions in Richard’s name may be made to St. Johns United Church of Christ (General Fund), 101 St. John Rd., Michigan City, IN or Salvation Army of Michigan City.

To sign guestbook or leave condolences, please visit: www.Carlislefh.com. (219) 874-4214.

Geisen Funeral Home

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Denise Hack Hileman

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Richard George Cook, age 83, of LaPorte, IN passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at LaPorte Hospital. Private arrangements will be held at Geisen-Carlisle Funeral & Cremation at 613 Washington St., Michigan City, IN 46360 for immediate family members only. He was born January 26, 1937 in Michigan City to George W. and MargaretContinue Reading

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In memory of Richard George Cook, wayne iseminger lit a candle

In memory of Richard George Cook, Denise Hack Hileman lit a candle

Our deepest condolences to your family. My dad, Jim Williams, was a good friend of Dick's and I remember them laughing together a lot at the old Ad Building. So very sorry for your loss. ~ The Williams Family (Jim, Steve, Dan, Eric, & Sarah, sons and daughter of Jim and Lucille Williams)

My deepest condolences to Mr Cook’s family. I have nothing but sweet memories of him and his family. You all are in my thoughts and prayers during this sad time.

The Cook family played a special role in lives of the Yentes family for years. We cherish the friendship Sandy and Dick had with Ruth and Wallace and the good times we all had over the years at St. John’s. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cook family at this time. Barb and Gary Stark

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

My heartfelt condolences to the family. May you find peace and healing in these difficult times.

Sandra and Family, We may never know how far one person's love has spread, but we know how that love has graced us. And, we will treasure that knowledge forever. We have lost a great teacher and a former neighbor. Annette &Glick) Scroggin

Sandy, Deb, Mike, Tyler and Ally, I'm so sorry for your loss. Dick would speak of you often and when he did, it was lovingly and kind. He was very proud of you all. I will never forget Dick. He was a good Christian and great administrator. I enjoyed working with him very much.

Sandy, Deb, Mike I am so sorry for your loss, I enjoyed working with Dick at the old Ad Bldg always looked forward to his birthday calls thought it was nice of him to take time to do that. He was always so nice, and then the lunch time duo Cook and Presser lol. May all the wonderful memories you have help get you through this very difficult time your family will be in my prayers. Love and Hugs. Chris Fry

To the Cook famiy Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless From Nancy & Richard Criswell & Family

Sending my thoughts and prayers to Sandy and Family. So very sorry for your loss.

My sympathy to Sanda and family on the passing of 'Dick' a friend and 103 Belden Street resident neighbor from Marsh School through 1955 graduation. Twin Brother Roger and I spent may hours (all season even snow) on the ground, playing basketball at the Cook's backyard Garage basketball Court. We participated with Dick as team mates in Jr and Sr High Basketball. Residing in Oregon, visiting cousins in La Porte, Janice and I spent quality time (2018) visiting with Dick and Sandy. It was a long time coming visit with Dick....bringing up the many growing up stories and great times we had together. Hoping Sandy has a ND photo Marsh School - 5 member - 5th and 6th grade grade school championship team: Dick, Roger/Richard, Neil Rehbein, and Dave McFeely receiving trophy from Warren Jones after beating the Garfield school team! An always to remember a cherished early school year;s event.

I remember Richard Cook from his Accounting and Typing class back in the early 1960's. I especially remember being in his Typing class when President Kennedy was shot. At the time I didn't realize what a good teacher he was but he was a very calming resource for our class during the announcement and after when we were all shocked. Blessings to the family, Marianne Coffey Morrison

Dick will be greatly missed. Sandy - you and your family are in my prayers. He was the best boss ever!! Always great to work for and the best joke teller. Lots of memories working together.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.