RAPID CITY, SD – Robert “Bob” Cook was born to Fred and Mathilda Cook on August 12, 1936, in Rapid City, SD. He peacefully passed away on December 4, 2024, in Wasilla, AK, with his daughter, Charmaree, and son, Casey, by his side.

At the age of 5, Bob moved from the Mt. Rushmore area to Chicago, IL, before returning to South Dakota, where he attended Pleasant Hill High School. It was in the halls of Black Hills State College that Bob met his beloved wife of 46 years, Joy Marlene Cook, whom he affectionately called “Sweet Pea.” Bob loved to tell the memorable story of how they met: Joy kicked a Coke machine in frustration because it didn’t come out, and Bob was instantly charmed. They shared a love for bluegrass festivals, turning summer festival camping trips into a cherished family tradition with wonderful memories alongside their children, grandchildren, and friends. Although Joy passed away in 2009, Bob continued to keep her spirit alive by sharing endearing memories and keeping cherished “Joy” keepsakes.

Bob and Joy lived in many places, raising six children: Robae, Bryan, Karae, Casey, Charmaree, and Joel. As educators, their adventurous spirit led them to teach on reservations in South Dakota, at Rifle Pit Divide in Wyoming, and in remote villages in Alaska, eventually settling in North Pole, AK. Bob earned the nickname “Mountain Ox” for his love of exploration and his ability to survive and thrive in remote and wild places. Along the way, he established lifelong friendships and touched many lives. He maintained these connections through his warm, engaging conversations, leaving behind fond memories for all who were fortunate to know him. Among these friendships was a special bond with a cherished friend, Connie Jones, who brought additional warmth and

companionship into his life.

Bob found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved tinkering on projects in his garage, relaxing in his big recliner, and chatting with friends, family, and even strangers. His genuine interest in everyone he met often led to long, meaningful conversations. Passionate about old vehicles, Bob always had a restoration project in mind. He delighted in a good meal at a local family diner, where the owners and staff greeted him warmly with a chorus of ‘Hey, Bob!’ Proud of his Norwegian heritage, Bob cheerfully answered his phone with ‘Norwegian Embassy!’ which never failed to bring a smile to us all.

Bob’s sense of humor was infectious. No one could resist his charm when he asked, “Can you keep a straight face?”—a challenge that always ended in a smile and a hearty laugh. But it was his kindness that will be the most memorable. He valued family time, ensuring that each member felt cherished. His warmth and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him and immediately charmed strangers, a phenomenon we called the ‘Bob Cook effect.’ He had a way of making everyone feel important, seen, and heard. We will forever miss his hand reaching out for a loving hand squeeze, high five, or handshake.

Bob is survived by his children: Robae (Maury), Bryan, Casey (Kristin), Charmaree (Scott), and Joel. He will live on through his grandchildren: Adam (Megan), Charlotte, Tiare (Adam), Elijah, Keenan, Reece, Ramey, Jace, and Annika, and was delighted by his great-grandchildren: Sage, Tegan, Lizabelle, Olivia, Allan, Jackson, Arabella, AJ, Christian, and Ander. He was a beloved “Uncle Bob,” “Mr. Cook,” and “Grandpa” to a large extended family who deeply mourn his passing. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Joy, his brother Roger, and his daughter Karae.

A celebration of Bob’s life and visitation will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Settler’s Bay Community Church in Wasilla at 1:00 PM. We invite you to dress like Bob by wearing your favorite plaid shirt (with a few pens in the pocket), overalls, and/or suspenders. For those unable to attend in person, the service can be viewed at the following link:

CLICK HERE to watch Bob’s service in Wasilla.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 10:00am at Faith Lutheran Church in Pierre, South Dakota and with burial following at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Blunt, SD, where he will be laid to rest alongside his wife and daughter. We appreciate your support and look forward to celebrating Bob’s life with you.

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