Jeffrey Russ Cook

Jeff was born on October 5, 1949 in Rice Lake, WI and grew up in Duluth, MN. He attended Morgan Park High School graduating in 1968. In 1969, he was drafted into the Vietnam War, serving in the First Cavalry Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Heroism, the Commendation Medal for Heroism, two Air Medals for over 25 aerial missions, and the Purple Heart.

He attended UMD where he double-majored in Sociology and Anthropology. He went on to work for the City of Duluth as a Water Quality Specialist, retiring in 2010. He has served as a member of the Duluth Township Council as well as the French River Church Council.

Jeff enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing and hunting, jogging and taking walks. He was an avid fan of college sports, conversation, and chocolate chip cookies.

Jeff was preceded in death by his brother, Mark Sowl.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Rita, daughters Devon (Kurt) Ruberg and Nicky Cook, grandson Brennan Ruberg, parents Amy and Fred Sowl, siblings Gail (Warren) Taylor, Mike Cook, Allen Sowl, George (Linda) Sowl, Kathy (Eric) Chelini and David Sowl, sisters-in-law Renee (Olaf) Gunderson, and Terry (Tom) Olmstead, many nieces and nephews, and best friend of 56 years, Rick Pond.

Memorial service: Tuesday April 30th 11:00 a.m. at French River Lutheran Church with Reverend Greg Garmer officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Full military honors will be presented following the service. All are invited to leave an online condolence for Jeff’s family at www.bellbrothersjarvidowd.com.