Walter I. Cook

Walter I. Cook, “Cookie”, age 85, of Marblehead, unexpectedly passed away on December 12, 2011. Walter was the beloved husband of the late Ann (Witter) Cook, with whom he shared over 53 years of marriage. Born in Newburyport, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Walter and Susan (Bartlett) Cook.

After graduating from Newburyport High School, Mr. Cook served in the Navy during World War II. He attended UNH and MIT where he earned a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering. Mr. Cook was employed by General Electric, the Foxboro Company, Stevens Arnold, Coulter Systems, Eaton/Nova, and the Spire Corporation where he worked in a wide range of R&D and design engineering positions.

Mr. Cook was a 32nd Degree Mason, and was with St. Johns Lodge in Newburyport for over 57 years. He loved square dancing, and was active in the local square dancing club, “The Salem Lancers.” He served as President in 1975, with his wife as Vice President. They also served as Treasurer and Secretary. Mr. Cook had also taught Navigation Classes for the Power Squadron in Marblehead.

While raising two children, Mr. Cook enjoyed sailing, skiing, hiking, waterskiing, and yearly vacations in Maine. He had his private pilot’s license and enjoyed taking family and friends flying out of Beverly Airport. He and his wife Ann enjoyed traveling after their retirement. They took many trips to Europe and cruises to the Caribbean Islands.

Mr. Cook will be greatly missed by his family: his daughter, Marjorie “Midge” Wetzel and Raymond Savignac of Oakham, his son Michael Cook, Michael’s wife Andrea Cook, and their two children, Gregory and Julia Cook of Salem. He is also survived by his sister Elisabeth Wilterdink of Claremont, New Hampshire, and her six children and grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held for friends and family at the Eustis and Cornell Funeral Home, 142 Elm Street, Marblehead on Thursday, December 15 at 1PM. Visitation will begin at 11AM. A private burial will be in Newburyport. Gifts in Walter’s name may be sent to a charity of one’s choice.