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Paul Cook Obituary

Cook, Paul J.
Jul 21, 1970 - May 11, 2010
Bellevue. A gentle and kind soul, avid fisherman and hunter; beloved son and brother. Survived by parents, James and Renate Cook, Bellevue; sister Margarethe and husband Gary Liles, Dallas, TX; brothers, Fred and wife Maria Cook, Kent, WA, Bruce and wife Cindy Cook, Omaha; several nieces and nephews.
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This obituary was originally published in the Omaha World-Herald.

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Published by Omaha World-Herald on May 16, 2010.

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June 3, 2010

A farewell to Paul, our loving son. Paul, you were more than a son to us; you were a great friend, a great fisherman, a great handyman, and a great person. There were so many things I should have told you during your short life. You saved my life twice -- once when we were fishing and once after our trip to Mississippi when I was coughing so much. I overheard you telling Mom if Dad doesn't quit smoking, our fishing days are numbered. I quit the next day for good. I never thanked you enough for these deeds. I never told you I loved you, but I do now everyday. You were a special person to many people, especially to Mom and I. We are going to miss you every minute of every day for the rest of our lives. - Dad

Fred Cook

June 3, 2010

Paul, although we struggle with grief over your senseless slaying, our family will stay strong. We will go on, but not as before. Now, we are minus one. Every Holiday, every celebration or family gathering, every meal, every conversation, you will be missed. I can't even look at the Moon without thinking of you and your interest in Astronomy. Now I hope you know all the secrets of the Universe.
We will stay strong for your sake. We will see that justice is done in your honor. You will live on in our memories. We'll always Love you.

Rachel Seaton

June 2, 2010

When I was a kid I loved Paul as an uncle, but when I grew up I came to love him as a friend. I enjoyed his visits to our home, and our late night card games! My husband liked Paul immediately, and they bonded over common interests like fishing and shooting their favorite guns. Paul is someone we would've chosen as a friend even if he were never family.
There were more wishes than I can express for future experiences with Paul, and it was crushing for us to realize they would never take place. I know Paul had lots of dreams for his future as well, but since he doesn't regret that now then I won't regret it for him. I am sad for myself, but find such comfort in knowing that the life he lives now is far better than any he could have dreamt for himself. I also find tremendous comfort in knowing that Paul's life had such meaning. I see that even in the posts written in this book. For a quiet guy, his life spoke volumes to so many!
Paul said that he met God, and that he was a happier person because of it. If his heavenly Father made him even a little bit happier here on this earth, how much more is He able to make Paul happy in eternity with Him? I am SO gonna love meeting up with Paul there one day! What a reunion that will be.

Greg Liles

June 2, 2010

How greatly will Paul be missed. We will forever remember the kind, gentle-hearted young man with a smile that warmed the heart. He was not only an uncle to me, but to others a son, a friend and a brother that was well-loved.

Today, he stands, not with human frailty, weaknesses and struggles, but in eternity, in spirit, and in a new-found strength. God's grace has covered the sorrows, heartaches and failures of an earthly life touched by the sin of mankind, and dressed him a life that is eternal.

John 3 says that "God so loved the world that he sent his only Son, that whoever believes in him, will not perish, but have everlasting life".

Paul was growing in this life, changing, even here on earth, but now he knows this life in fullness. We grieve in our loss, but we "do not grieve as those who have no hope", for we know that Paul placed his hope in the One who holds life eternal.

Today, we miss Paul immensely. We grieve the loss of an uncle, son, brother, friend, but we find comfort in the knowledge that we can one day see him again in eternity.

Until then, may the grace and peace of God be with you. May He help your heart in times of trouble and sorrow, for a "bruised-reed and a broken wick He will not deny". May His comfort and love reach out to you in a time of sorrow and loss and may you know the comfort of the one who first loved Paul.

Tom Bunz

June 2, 2010

Dear Jim and Renate,

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Paul was a good soft spoken man. We compared many of fishing stories and reviewed many pictures together. (Channel and Flathead Catfish)(He usually had bigger fish stories, I may add)

We would have our gathering around his boat to discuss fishing strategies and compare baits, lures for upcoming trips.

I am truley so sorry for such a loss.

I will pray for you during these hard times. Keep the memories and continue to fish. That is what Paul would want, until you meet in heaven, then you can fish together again.

God Bless You!

Tom Bunz, Albert Lea, MN.

June 2, 2010

Our beloved son's Paul untimely death left a deep void in our Family. He was a very good son, always thoughtful and a help to others. A gentle soul, a mischeivous humor always a joy to be around, we will always miss him.
In deep sorrow and great pride of who he was his parents Jim and Renate

June 2, 2010

Jim & Renata,
The loss of a child is unthinkable! To find strength in each other will help to ease your pain.
With sincerity & condolences
Diane & Chuck Antoniak

Laura Mace

June 1, 2010

For several years I had the pleasure of having the Jim & Renate Cook as my neighbors. We have moved from the neighborhood, but they will always be our friends and the best neighbors.
So many times I recall Jim and Paul returning from a fishing excursion. I couldn't wait to run outside and see how many fish they caught and listen to the fishing stories they had to tell. I could never hear them enough. You could see the joy in Jim and Paul's face, grinning from ear to ear. Such a great father and son relationship!
Another favorite memory was at my daughters first birthday party she was sad because her balloon was floating to high for her to reach. Paul caught it and handed it to Isabella. Paul did not speak a word, but was so gentle and kind. It is the unspoken moments, like these, when you realize who your friends really are.
Paul will be deeply missed and I am so proud to have known him. Our deepest condolences to all of Paul's friends, family and co-workers.

Margarethe

May 25, 2010

You never said you're leavingYou never said goodbye
You were gone before I knew it,
And only God knew why.
If love alone could have saved you,
You never would have died.
In life I loved you dearly
In death I love you still
In my heart you hold a place,
That nobody could ever fill.
It broke my heart to lose you,
But you didn't go alone
For part of me went with you,
The day God took you home. (author unknown).... You are missed Paul.

Juan Rangel

May 25, 2010

Rest In Peace, Brother.

MERVIN SLIVERS

May 21, 2010

HOW!YA-AH-TEH!I FIRST MET MY GOOD FRIEND PAUL BACK IN THE MID NIGHTIES. SINCE THEN HE HAS ALWYS BEEN A REAL FRIEND, NEVER KNOWN HIM TO CAUSE ANY KINDA TROUBLE. WE WORKED ON A LOTA GANGS SHARED STORIES, FOOD SODA POP, TAUGHT HIM SOME WORDS IN OUR LANGUAGE. GOOD N BAD. DATS WHY IAM DEEPLY SADDEN SHOCKED, STILL CANNOT BELIEVE WHAT HAS HAPPENED. SO MYGOOD FRIEND PAUL (ASHKI-TSO)MAY YOU REST IN PEACE AND HAVE A JOURNEY. DONT EAT TOO MUCH WHEN U GIT DAR NOW YA HEAR! SAVE SOME FOR US. TO PAULS FAMILY, THE CREATOR BE WITH YOU IN YOUR TIME OF OVERWHELMING SADDNESS WISH I COULD SAY MORE TO GIVE YOU ALL A LITTLE COMFORT. JUST STAY STRONG WHAT EVER,HOWEVER YOU PRAY MAY THAT BRING COMFORT.

Jake Abeyta

May 20, 2010

I am very sorry for your loss, I met Paul in 1997 when he came to Utah to work on the section for a little while, I was sad to see him leave. I am grateful to have known him and work with him. He is missed dearly by his Railroad Family.

John Lopez

May 20, 2010

I am very sorry for your loss. Paul was a great guy and great worker. He would do anything and everthing for anyone. Our prayers are with you all. God bless you!!

Red

May 19, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Pauls family and friends in your time of grief. Paul was a kind, very gentle, hard working friend. He will forever be missed and never forgotten. RIP PAUL
Jeremy and Angel Gipfert

D.D. Cordova

May 19, 2010

We would like to send our condolences to the Cook family. We got the opportunity to work with Paul on numerous occasions. We have innumerable fond memories of Paul, but what stood out the most were his gentle nature and a deep voice. He was great person to be around, Paul Cook we miss you …. ~ D.D. Cordova & V.A. Toledo ~

Vincent Warren

May 19, 2010

Sorry for the loss of your family member. We will also be missed among the members of his railroad family.

Cheryl Luse

May 19, 2010

I am so sorry for. yours and our loss. Paul was so special. I have known Paul since 1997. He was a friend and co-worker. Paul was one of the kindest, strongest,and hardest workers on the railroad. I loved to hear him talk. His John Wayne impression was awesome. My sincerest sympathy to the family, he will be missed. Cheryl Luse(Lusk,WY)

Mark and Julie Gigous

May 19, 2010

My deepest sympathies go out to Paul`s family. I had the honor and priviledge of working with Paul on the steel gang. He was a kind and gentle man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. God Bless.

Art Playle

May 19, 2010

I really enjoyed working with Paul. He will be greatly missed. I am very sorry for your loss.

Ute&Cecil Bruton

May 18, 2010

Paul was part of a wonderful family and now a part of that family is gone! Paul was the right hand for his Mom and Dad as well as responding to any family or friend. We have known Paul all of his life and know what a careing and considerate family member and friend he was to all.Pauls ability to communicate with both his wit and his sincerety made him touch all with friendship and honesty. Paul will be missed by all and especially the Bruton family!
Our love to Jim,Renate and the Cook family

Doug Kuehne

May 18, 2010

I'm very sorry for your loss. I've known Paul for several years. He was great guy who was willing to do his very best. He will be sorely missed.

Frank Green Jr.

May 18, 2010

To my friend Paul and Family- God Bless! & Condolences to the whole family. He was a friend and a co-worker with honesty and hardworking worker! You surely will be missed! Frank Green Jr. ( Lupton, AZ)

Jerry & Helen Hilton

May 18, 2010

Our heart felt simpathies go out to the Cook family. Jerry and I only knew Paul a couple of years since Jerry joined the North Tie Gang. I would always look for Paul's pretty Mustang to pull in to the job site each n every half. As everyone has already said, Paul did not say much but there was always a ready smile waiting to be shared. Along with anyting else that you may be needing. We'll miss you, Paul. Good bye till we see you again one day.......

Steven Remer

May 18, 2010

To my friend who said so little,but he said so much through his actions. I'm going to miss you buddy.

Robert Love

May 18, 2010

Paul you will be missed, you were truly a selfless giver and a hardworker. A true friend. God bless you and those you left behind

Oliver Becenti

May 18, 2010

My Condolences to the family.. Oliver Becenti

Mike Templeton

May 18, 2010

Even though it's been a few years since I've worked with you I feel cheated that I won't get to hear your voice and see "that little smirk" of your's. You helped make work fun when you were on the gang. You are and will be missed Paul!

Tim Toledo

May 18, 2010

My thoughts and prayers goes out to Paul and his family. He will be truly missed as a Co-worker. He was always a great friend to me. Also, consider him as my big brother. I was very honored to have know Paul.
Your little brother.

May 17, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go to Pauls family and friends. He was a very kind soul and a pleasure to be around. I'm very sorry for your loss. He will be truly missed. Ryan Stewart (Glenrock, Wy)

alex tso,jr.

May 17, 2010

You will be missed,Paul. lots of prayers for his family.

Armando&Eduardo Garcia

May 17, 2010

My deepest condolences,to Pauls family,I have lost one of the few true friends,I will miss Him and im sad that my son Eduardo wont get to know him better, but if there ever was a man that i knew who belonged in Gods kingdom its Paul and I know thats where he is. Ill miss you Paul.

Ryan George

May 17, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of loss. Rest in peace Paul.

T.D. Malcolm

May 17, 2010

God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow or sun without rain. But God did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and a light for the way. And for all who believe in his kingdom above, he answers their faith with an everlasting love. Paul was one of the strongest guys I ever had the honor of knowing. He was a great man. Rest in peace my friend. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

May 17, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

jeff vest

May 17, 2010

R.I.P to a good soul who helped me survive when i struggled on the road. almost gave me the shirt off his back when i needed it! sorry i can't return the favor! my sympathies to his family!

Todd Mathews

May 17, 2010

Very sorry for your loss, Paul will be greatly missed!!!

May 17, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Alex Vigil (Laramie, Wy.)

Aaron Arnett

May 17, 2010

His gentle nature and willingness to help others will be sorely missed. May God bless you all.

paul olson

May 17, 2010

i'm sorry my entry for may 17, 2010 beginning,"To Mr. and Mrs.Cook" was marked anonymous. this entry is from me

Fred Keesee

May 17, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

James Morris

May 17, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Lori

May 17, 2010

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010

Jason Hickman

May 17, 2010

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure! Paul was a very great man who will deeply missed by anyone who knew him. I have always thought of him as being "A Gentle Giant" as he was so kind hearted. His slow deep tone when speaking and little smirk he would give you was a definite one-of-a-kind. Although he never got too worked up about anything, "you would hear about it if he did not like something for sure". But, whether he liked it or not, he would always be there to help. My family sends our condolences to all of Paul's family and friends. May the "Gentle Giant" live on forever in all of our hearts and thoughts!

Nicole Cook

May 17, 2010

My uncle Paul was the kindest person. He had a huge heart, and was always willing to help. I have many happy memories of Paul. I would have to say the best was at my baby shower. You could tell he maybe felt a little awkward being at a baby shower, but he still played the games and all...he even won the game where he guessed how many pieces of toilet paper wrapped around my belly. He took great care of my grandparents (his parents) and was a role model for my little brother. He will be sorely missed, but I hope we can all remember the happy memories with Paul.
Love you Paul

May 17, 2010

To Mr.and Mrs.Cook, I offer my deepest and most heartfelt sympathies in your time of mourning. I considered Paul a friend, and was honored to do so. Paul was the type of person who would help a friend or co-worker out even if it meant going out of his way to do so. He never had a cross word for anyone, and for those of us who knew, and worked with him, we are better people for doing so. Paul also had that sense of calm about him, so that no matter how crazy, and scattered things seemed to get from time to time he always seemed to make it a bit better just by being there, and lending a hand if one was needed. Paul will be missed, but never forgotten,, and will hold a special place in the hearts of all who were friends with him and knew him.

Levi Dyba

May 17, 2010

Paul will be missed. One of the most hardworking and nicest guys i knew. Our deepest condolences on your family's loss. Rest in Peace you will surely be missed by all the people you have touched , Levi Dyba and family

Bryan Koski

May 17, 2010

Paul J. Cook was a man of entegrity, selflessness, and strong moral values. He would give you his lunch, if you were hungry. His coat if you were cold, and a smile and a COKE if you were just walking by...His work ethics would make any manager proud to say he was on his clock. But I say for so many and all that we are more proud to say he was my friend!!! I WILL MISS YOU MY FRIEND....Bryan "COWBOY" Koski.

Jose Vasquez

May 17, 2010

I would like to send my condolences to the Cook family for there recent loss. I had worked with Paul for some time, and his presence will be missed . Paul was a good man and a honor to work along side him . Paul will be in are prayers and thoughts sincerely the Vasquez family .

Chris Medina

May 17, 2010

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Cook, I cant imagine your pain and sorrow during your bereavement. Paul and I worked together for a couple of years and I had the pleasure of working with him in Phoenix Az. earlier this year. Allow me to write to you my favorite quote: " Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they to have there story. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love- for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the council of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and lonliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you concieve Him to be, and whatever your lobours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world." My prayers will be with you and your family.

Saul Vasquez

May 16, 2010

Grief does not discriminate, we'll all miss Mr. Paul J. Cook.. Each of us in our own way and for our own reasons.. My prayers and condolences are for anyone and everyone close to my friend Paul..

Danny Wood

May 16, 2010

I am deeply sorry for your loss. Your son had a heart of gold. Paul will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of meeting him. Keeping your family in my prayers. God bless.

Terrence Fletcher

May 16, 2010

Iam very sorry for your loss I didnt know paul for very long but he was a very kind and nice person. The kind of person who will be missed by many. He was a great worker the best i have worked with. Union Pacific lost a great employee who cant be replaced .My heart goes out to his family and friends.

Dan Aguilar

May 16, 2010

Sorry for your loss, Paul was a very nice guy to work with. He was fun to work around and he made the day go faster when he was around us. He will truly be missed by all of the people who worked with him.
Sincerely, Dan Aguilar, aka. Gomez (Evans, CO)

May 16, 2010

sorry for your loss. he will dearly be missed. Ryan Rochlitz/Julesburg co.

Tyrone Thomas

May 16, 2010

My deepest condolences to the family. I had the pleasure of knowing & working with Paul. He was good-natured and diligent in his work. He will be missed.

Rusty & Erlinda Larsen

May 16, 2010

We are so sorry for the loss of your son Paul. He was a kind and generous man, so easy going, and just a joy to be around. He was wonderful with our grandchildren, Kailie & Emily, and a treasured friend to our daughter Melissa and son-in-law Brad. He will truly be missed and always loved. The Lord has called his son home.

Robert Clark

May 16, 2010

I will always remember the first tme I met paul. He and I were riding a man carrier in Lompoc Calif. He was a kind gentle soul ,I will miss him greatly. It was a tremendous pleasure knowing him.

Ron Matthews

May 16, 2010

My family and I send our Prayers to the Family and Friends of Paul. He was one of the kindest and hardest working co-workers I have worked with. His loss will be felt forever. God Bless.

james inglis

May 16, 2010

we are sorry for the loss of your son and will keep you and your family in our prayers and our thoughts kelly and angela inglis.

Justin and Veronica Mehling

May 16, 2010

We are sorry for the loss of our good friend Paul, our coworker, our brother....he will be missed greatly! But the memory of him will never be forgotten .....God Bless your family your in our thoughts and prayers.

Justin and Veronica Mehling
Laramie,Wy

Anthony P. Vigil

May 16, 2010

I am deeply sorry for your loss, paul was a good man and i am honored to have known him, my deepest simpathy to the entire Cook family.God Bless. Anthony. P Vigil.

Douglas Bruner

May 16, 2010

The sun rises, our good mornings are said, you started our days and now they have came to a end. The backseat is empty, you will surely be missed. The Lord chooses only the best.Paul was a great man and it was a honor to know and work with him over the years, I send my prayers to the family and im greatly sorry for everyone's loss for Paul was a gentle giant that will never be replaced.

ed crandell

May 16, 2010

i am very sorry for your loss paul was a hard worker and one of the nicest men i new god bless ed c omaha ne

John and Lori Miller

May 16, 2010

We are deeply sorry for the lost of your son. I was an honor to know such a kind and loving young man, and our family will miss him dearly. I have comfort knowing that he went to a beautiful place. My family and I send you the deepest love in this tragic time in your lives.

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