James H. Cook

James H. Cook, 78, of Harrisville, died Sunday, September 15, 2013 at the Alpena Regional Medical Center. Born September 23, 1934 to John Lawrence and Helga (Anderson) Cook, in Haynes Township, he was raised there. A graduate of Harrisville High School, Jim received his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in 1956, and went to work for Wyandotte Chemical. He married Nancy Hosmer on May 9, 1959, and they moved to Alpena. Jim worked for Huron Portland Cement as the supervisor of maintenance. Jim earned his MBA from Wayne State University in 1963, and his law degree from Detroit College of Law the following year. He served in the Army Reserves as a Captain in the Corps of Engineers. After moving to Harrisville, Jim became Alcona County Prosecuting Attorney in April 1967, until 1979, when he entered into private practice. On June 27, 1991, he became Alcona County Probate Judge, a position he held until retiring in 2006. He enjoyed hunting, and was committed to his land in Haynes Township “Stone Castle”, where he entertained many groups on his golf course. Jim was active in community affairs, and enjoyed working in the community, but his most treasured role was grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, one daughter, Debbie (Greg) Fodor of Trenton, one son, Dave (Patty) Cook of Harrisville, five granddaughters, Ellie Fodor, and Samantha, Rachel, Nicole and Lexie Cook, one sister, Carol (Carl) Gehres of Harrisville, one brother, Dr. Thomas ( Judy) Cook of Alpena, and one sister-in-law, Beth Cook of Dewitt. He was preceded in death by a brother, John Cook. Mr. Cook is at Gillies Funeral Home, Lincoln where friends may call on Friday from 2:00 until 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be Saturday at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Rev. Rob Cook will officiate. Burial will be in Mt. Joy Cemetery, Haynes Township. Memorial donations may be made to a scholarship fund being established in Jim’s name. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James H. Cook, please visit our flower store.