Russell Cook

Russell Eugene Cook, 68, of Decatur passed away Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, at Parkview Regional Medical Center. He was born Sep. 1, 1955, in Adams County to Herbert E. “Wiggs” and Helen B. (Burkhart) Cook. He met the love of his life, Rebecca J. “Becky” Straub, in April of 1975. In May of 1975, he told her he loved her. Then Oct. 25, 1975, they were united in marriage in Magley.
He was a member of Mt. Zion United Brethren Church, Bobo where he served on many boards and offices in the church. He was a 1973 graduate of Adams Central High School in Monroe. He was active on the Monroe Fire Department and Rescue Squad for 38 years and he served as chief for 17 of those years. He was also the St. Mary’s Township trustee for many years. He found great joy in serving and caring for the community.
At the age of 15, he started butchering meat for Clouse’s Meats. From there, he worked for Lengerich’s Meats, Gerber’s Super Valu #1 and Troyer’s Market. He also worked for Zwick & Jahn Funeral Homes for six years. His final job was at Grandpa’s Uber Service.
He always had a passion for raising all kinds of animals, including exotics and enjoyed sharing this with anyone who stopped by. He enjoyed his golf cart rides with his wife. His greatest passion was people. His most noted quality would be his big heart. He loved talking with everyone and, most of all, sharing his story and his love for Christ.
He is survived by his mother of Decatur; his wife of Decatur; two daughters, Mandy (Tony) Heiser of Decatur; and Katie (Joe) Adams of Fort Wayne; three grandchildren, Kevin Cook; Gabby Heiser; and Matthew Heiser; three step-grandchildren, Cody Adams; Tate Adams; and JT Adams; sister, Darlene (Russell) Noel of Indianapolis; two sisters-in-law, Sharon Rich; and Bev (Jim) Butler, both of Decatur; brother-in-law, Kenny (Marlene) Straub of Monroe; honorable sisters, Vicki Steffen; and Susy Brooks; and many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
Visitation will be Saturday, Dec. 2 from 1-5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 3 from 12-5 p.m. and one hour prior to the 11 a.m. funeral service Monday, Dec. 4 at Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur. Officiating will be Pastor Karen Garner, Pastor Ernie Suman, Josh Butler and Bill Weiss. Burial will be at Mt. Tabor Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Monroe Fire Department.
Arrangements provided by Zwick & Jahn Funeral Homes in Decatur. To sign the online guest book, visit www.zwickjahn.com.