William R. Cook Died April 21, 2020

William R. Cook

1947 ~ 2020

William Richard Cook, 72, of Northport, passed away on April 21, 2020.

Bill was born on September 8, 1947 in Traverse City, the son of Cleo and Lela (Wilson) Cook.

Bill was a one-of-a-kind accomplished professional musician.  He was a constant musical presence at Trinity Church UCC for more than 50 years and at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church for more than 23 years.  His selections of preludes and postludes were impeccable.  He blessed so many lives with the music of his hands, his feet, and his voice.  The swell of his organ playing filling sanctuaries will not soon be forgotten.  His vocal and trombone solos and duets remain treasured memories.  He was the pianist for many years with the Back Room Gang and played Dixieland with an improvisational flair.  Bill is remembered fondly by his Northport School classmates and friends within the Village.  In addition to playing music, Bill was a gardener, landscaper, and baker.  

We miss you, Bill Cook, and are grateful for your legacy among us.

Bill is survived by his brother, Clinton (Cheryl) Cook; nieces, Melissa Cook-Farr and Darci Dean; and five grand nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Merretta “Poppy” Nash.

An opportunity for the community to gather and honor Bill’s life will be planned for a date in the future.

Memorials may be directed to Bill’s family, c/o Trinity Church UCC, PO Box 156, Northport, MI 49670.

Please share condolences and memories with Bill’s family below or on our funeral home Facebook page.