Arthur Eugene Cook

Arthur Eugene Cook, born on March 26, 1934, passed away peacefully at HopeWest on February 17, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones just shy of his 91st birthday.

Art led a life characterized by hard work, dedication, and a generous spirit that left an indelible mark on his family and community.

A proud graduate of Grand Junction High School in 1954, Art began his career immediately after graduation as a lineman for Mountain Bell, where he remained until his retirement at the age of 52 as a supervisor. 

During high school Art also raced on the Colorado River in a boat built by his Pop. Being on the river so much, he was a member of the Water Skippers and became a trained diver to help with search and rescues.

After high school Art also served with the National Guard.

Art started the Grand Valley Archery club, the first archery club in Grand Junction. He and his wife spent many years competing in archery competitions in Colorado and surrounding states, as well as hunting with their bows.

Art was a charter member of the Western Slope ATV Association, where he was involved in search and rescue efforts with Mesa County Search and Rescue for over 50 years. He was proud to be part of this team as they searched for and found many stranded people in the mountains.

He worked many years with others on the Bangs Canyon project to ensure that there would be recreation opportunities for many to enjoy.

Art's pivotal role in these initiatives led him to being honored as a Lions Club Hometown Hero in 2001, a testament to his altruism and community impact.

Art was a Boy Scout in his youth, and throughout his life was ever eager to share his love for the mountains with others, teaching them to hunt and instilling in them a deep respect for the wilderness.

With a personality described as stubborn, yet ornery, Art was nonetheless a loyal and caring friend to many. He built enduring friendships throughout his life as was seen as a great steward of the community. His contributions were vast, and his presence will be missed dearly by those who knew him.

Art is survived by his four daughters, Chandra Cook, Cara Erickson (Donald), Crystal Dunn (Chuck Silengo), and Cheryl Power (Mike). He also leaves behind his brother, Larry Cook, seven grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren with another on the way.

He joins his beloved wife, Irene Kay Cook; father, Kenneth Cook; mother, Ora; and stepfather, Melvin "Pop" Feller, who predeceased him.

Art's memory will forever remain alive in the hearts of his family and friends, who will cherish the lessons he taught and the values he instilled throughout his rich and rewarding life.

Art's family would like to thank all the dedicated caregivers at Aspen Ridge Alzheimer's Special Care Center, and at HopeWest.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Doubletree by Hilton in Grand Junction.

In lieu of flowers the family would suggest donations be made to HopeWest or the Alzheimer's Association.