Shirley Ann Cook's Obituary
Shirley Ann Cook, 88 of Chanute, Kansas passed away at Heritage Healthcare and Rehab in Chanute on Sunday, December 15, 2024.
Shirley Ann was welcomed into this world on March 14, 1936 at Wilson County Hospital in Neodesha, Kansas to Elmer and Adeline (Hynek) Carstedt. Shirley was a proud member of the 1954 graduating class of Neodesha High School, Neodesha, Kansas. On April 17, 1955 Shirley married Harold “Dale” Cook in Neodesha. Shirley grew up on a rural farm east of Neodesha. In 1963, Shirley and Dale moved to Chanute and made their home. Through the years they welcomed four children, Jeff, Becky, Matt, and Marty.
Shirley was foremost a mom and homemaker. When Shirley’s children were older, she went to work at Evans Music Store for eight years and Fleming Music Store for 25 years. She also worked at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home and Countryside Funeral Home for many years. Shirley was a lifelong member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and Altar Society. She was a member of the church choir, and a Eucharistic Minister. She was also a member of the Harvest House.
Shirley was a beloved wife to her husband Dale for 67 years, a proud mother to her children and devoted to her church. Shirley had a big servant heart. She was involved heavily in her children’s activities and extended that care and encouragement to many of her children’s friends throughout the years. Shirley always had a hug for family, neighbors, friends and anyone she felt needed comfort or encouragement.
Shirley is preceded in death by her husband, Harold “Dale” Cook, sons, Jeff and Marty Cook, her parents, Elmer and Adeline Carstedt, her in-laws Harold and Lorean Cook, sister-in-law Betty Fleming and brother-in-law Ron Fleming.
Survivors include her daughter Becky Stich (Joe), son, Matt Cook (Tammy), 14 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, 8 great-great grandchildren, and brothers, Edward (Carolyn) and Robert Carstedt and numerous nieces and nephews. Reciting of the Rosary will take place at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Chanute, Kansas on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 2:00 pm with Mass of Christian Burial following at 2:30. Burial will immediately follow at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made in Shirley’s name to the St. Patrick Catholic School and can be left with Countryside Funeral Home. The family has entrusted arrangements with Countryside Funeral Home in Chanute.
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