William Riley Cook , 89, of rural Churubusco, passed away at his home on Monday, December 9, 2024.

He was born on November 3, 1935, in Lee County, Virginia, to the late Riley and Ollie Mae (Brummett) Cook.  Growing up in Tennessee, he completed his formal education and joined the U. S. Air Force.  Serving during the Korean War in the Military Police.

After his discharge, he obtained a Commercial Driver's License and became a truck driver.  After over twenty years, he retired from driving and became a carpenter.  Living in Posey County, he worked well into his seventies.  After retiring, he moved to Columbia City in 2017, and in 2019, he moved to Churubusco.

He enjoyed vegetable gardening and was a faithful viewer of Fox News.  An avid Chicago Cubs fan, he followed their games throughout the season.

Surviving are his children, Candis (Gregory) Kessie of Indianapolis, Billy (Brandice Penner) Jorgensen of Poseyville, and Bonnie Starke; grandchildren, Eric Jorgensen, Amelia Kessie, Raelyn Beaty, and Lucy Kessie; and siblings, Kenneth Cook, Douglas Cook, and Hellen Cook.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by an infant brother, Paul Charles Cook.

Visitation is from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, (December 13th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia.

Memorials in Bill's honor are to Honor Flight of NE Indiana.