Gary Edward Cook

Gary Edward Cook, 88, of  Houghton Lake passed away on Wednesday May 27, 2026 at  Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital.

Gary was born on February 11, 1938 in Cheboygan, Michigan to Edwin and Ida (Beech) Cook. He grew up in the Cheboygan area where he attended school.  Following his school days Gary was in the Army serving his country.  He worked as an Operating Engineer with Local 324 in the Detroit area and throughout the State.  In 1986 in Toledo, Ohio, Gary was married to Barbara K. Willyoung. Gary was a member of Houghton Lake Moose Lodge,  and the Houghton Lake Eagles.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was an avid pool player ,  He delighted in going to the senior center to have lunch and play pool once every week.  He loved spending the last 27 years playing with his special friend he got from the animal shelter, his cat, Smurf.

Surviving Mr. Cook are his four sons, Greg (Gloria) Cook of Durand, Patrick (Lori) Cook of White Lake, Calvin (Vicki) Cook of WI, and Edward Cook of Orlando, FL; step daughter, Cindy Richardson of Clarkston; step son, Scott(Vanda) Richrdson of GA; 11 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; sister, Sylvia McLain of Republic, WA; nieces and nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Barbara K. Cook, and brother, Bruce Cook. 

Celebration of Life Services for Gary Edward Cook will be held at a later date.   Memorial contributions in memory of Gary are asked to be directed to the Houghton Lake Senior Center or Roscommon County Animal Shelter. Christler Funeral Home, Houghton Lake Chapel is serving the family. Condolences can be sent to the family online at www.christler-holdship.com 

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