Steven Cook

Steven Cook, 71, of Fort Dodge passed away Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at Friendship Haven. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday August 28th from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Laufersweiler Funeral Home. Survivors include his daughters Mollie Cook Jenks, his granddaughter Katie of Fort Dodge, and daughter Carrie Essary and granddaughter Liliana of Ankeny, his sister Susan Cook of Lincoln, NE, and his cherished companion of 30 years, Judy Payne, of Fort Dodge. He was preceded in death by his parents Wayne and Doris (Leitig) Cook. Steven Bates Cook was born on April 26, 1951, in Rapid City, SD and raised and educated in Richfield, MN. In high school he was All State shot-put and discus and in college at the University of Nebraska he was a football player for the Cornhuskers. He married Susan Fitzgerald in 1972 to which his two daughters were born. Steve earned his master's degree in Media and after briefly teaching and coaching in Webster City, he was employed by the Fort Dodge Community Schools for 31 years as the library media specialist and social studies teacher. He retired in 2009. He had served as chair of both the Fort Dodge Public Library board, and the Fort Dodge Education Association. He was also a charter member of the Fort Dodge Home Rule Committee and an organizing member of the IHAF: The International Horse Archery Festival. Steve was a devoted father and mate. He was a kind, unassuming, protective, soft spoken, calm, and described by many as a gentle giant. He was well traveled, smart, curious, organized, always there to help. Probably his only vice was his Snicker bar addiction. It would never occur to Steve to be dishonest, condescending, phony, or petty. He made everyone around him feel safe, and had an incredible, dry sense of humor. His loved ones will forever treasure the memories of his unconditional love. In lieu of flowers memorials may be left to the discretion of the Family. Celebration Of Life Sun, Aug 28, 2022 at 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Laufersweiler-Sievers Funeral Home 307 South 12th Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501