Russell E. Cook

Russell Eugene Cook, 68, of Decatur, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at Parkview Regional Medical Center.

He was born on September 1, 1955 in Adams County, Indiana to the late Herbert E. “Wiggs” Cook and Helen B. (Burkhart) Cook.

Russell met the love of his life, Rebecca J. “Becky” Straub, in April of 1975.  In May of 1975, he told her he loved her. Then on October 25, 1975, they were united in marriage in Magley, Indiana.

Russell was a member of Mt. Zion United Brethren Church, Bobo where he served on many boards and offices in the church.  He was a 1973 graduate of Adams Central High School in Monroe. Russell was active on the Monroe Fire Department and Rescue Squad for 38 years and he served as chief for 17 of those years.  He was also the St. Mary’s Township Trustee for many years. Russell found great joy in serving and caring for the community.

At the age of 15, Russell started butchering meat for Clouse’s Meats.  From there, Russell worked for Lengerich’s Meats, Gerber’s Super Valu #1, and Troyer’s Market.  He also worked for Zwick & Jahn Funeral Homes for six years. His final job was Grandpa’s Uber Service.

Russell always had a passion for raising all kinds of animals, including exotics and enjoyed sharing this with anyone who stopped by.  He enjoyed his golf cart rides with Becky.  His greatest passion was people. His most noted quality would be his big heart. He loved talking with everyone and, most of all, sharing his story and his love for Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Becky Cook of Decatur, Indiana; mother, Helen Cook of Decatur, Indiana; daughter, Mandy (Tony) Heiser of Decatur, Indiana; daughter, Katie (Joe) Adams of Fort Wayne, Indiana; three grandchildren, Kevin Cook, Gabby Heiser and Matthew Heiser; three step-grandchildren, Cody Adams, Tate Adams, and JT Adams; sister, Darlene (Russell) Noel of Indianapolis, Indiana; sister-in-law, Sharon Rich of Decatur, Indiana; sister-in-law, Bev (Jim) Butler of Decatur, Indiana; brother-in-law, Kenny (Marlene) Straub of Monroe, Indiana; honorable sisters, Vicki Steffen and Susy Brooks; and many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, December 4, 2023 at Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur, with Pastor Karen Garner, Pastor Ernie Suman, Josh Butler and Bill Weiss officiating.  Burial will follow in Mt. Tabor Cemetery.

Family and friends will be received from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, 2023 and 12 noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, December 3, 2023, and one hour prior to the service on Monday at Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur.

Preferred memorials can be given to Monroe Fire Department.

Arrangements are by Zwick and Jahn Funeral Homes of Decatur, Indiana.