Charlie Cook, 74

Charles Franklin Cook, age 74, of Marcellus, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2017. He was born in La Porte, IN on Feb. 10, 1943 the son of Charles Albert Cook and Beatrice (Schweitzer) Cook. Charlie graduated from Three Rivers High School in 1960 and later earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Western Michigan University. He taught industrial arts and history at Portage Central Middle School for 45 years. Charlie was also a licensed contractor, building and remodeling many homes. He enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time.

Charlie was married to Mary Ellen Fitzstephens on July 17, 1999 in Marcellus. She survives along with a daughter, Jennifer (Marcus) Chambers of Paw Paw; a son, Andrew (Mimi) Cook of Portage; a step-daughter, Marcie Haw of Chicago; five grandchildren, Maya and Gryphon Chambers, Gabriela Cook, and Katie and Erin Haw; a sister, Peggy (Philip) Sturman of Millinocket, ME. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by a sister, Janet Chappelle.

In keeping with his wishes cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 10 am to 12 noon on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. Memorial services will begin at 12 noon Saturday at the funeral home with Monsignor Thomas Martin officiating. Interment will take place in St. Edward Catholic Cemetery followed by a gathering in the lower level of the church. It is suggested that memorials be directed to either Great Lakes Caring Hospice, or to the Michigan Parkinson Foundation. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com