Francis D. “Cookie” Cook, 81, of Edwardsburg, passed to his rest Feb. 18, 2011 at Riveridge Manor in Niles after an illness.

He was born March 12, 1929 in South Bend to Avon G. and Bessie E. (Ramsey) Cook. He grew up in Michiana and lived here his whole life.

Cookie worked as a plumber for 39 years with Dodge Reliance Electric of Mishawaka before retiring in 1991. He was a member of the Dodge Athletic Association, Dodge Quarter Century Club, United States Steel Workers Union, Local 1191 of Mishawaka and Sons of American Legion of Edwardsburg.

Surviving Cookie are his companion, Betty Smith; three sons, Dr. Robert F. Cook, Richard E. Cook and Thomas M. Cook; six grandchildren and a few great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his caregivers, a nephew, Thomas Motter of Lawton, Mich. and dear friends Tony and Debra Troche of Cassopolis.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Sue Ann Cook.

According to Cookie’s wishes, he was been cremated. His cremains will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery in Mishawaka next to his parents this spring.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Riveridge Manor of Niles for their care and support through Cookie’s last days while he was battling cancer.

Arrangements are by Paul E. Mayhew Funeral Home, Edwardsburg.