Born December 1st 1947 in Houston TX, he was adopted by Winfield And Ruby Cook of Almeda, TX. John went to Almeda High School and in 1968 was drafted by the US Army to serve in Vietnam as a member of Co. B, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry of the 25th Infantry Division known as Tropic Lighting aka "The Electric Strawberries". During his service, "Big Tex" as he was nicknamed, was awarded two Purple Hearts and Bronze Star for heroism in combat. John returned and was married and divorced twice in a short period of time while dealing with PTSD. After his return he re-enlisted in the Navy and sailed aboard the USS Independence working on the flight deck. In 1972 he met his wife Michelle whom he spent 19 yrs and fathered two children. John was an avid Star Trek and Sci-Fi follower, dedicated Astros fan, and to top it off one of the most knowledgeable hot rodders you could have met. His early years he spent a lot of time at drag strips and dirt tracks. Later on, he could be found at major car shows or swap meets in the Houston area.
Survived by his son's Christopher, born in 1977 and Sean, born in 1984, and three grandchildren Cody, Hailey, and Connor. He was a loving and stern father, who wanted nothing more for his children than to find happiness wherever they searched. He believed in the constant cycle of energy in the universe and that death is merely a return to the stars and elements from which we came. With this outlook on life, we know John will continue to be around us forever, in the air we breathe, the summer rains, and soil beneath our feet. More importantly he will be in our hearts, as his words, life lessons and stories will resonate in our souls for eternity.
Visitation for John will be held Wednesday, May 1, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.
Funeral service will occur Wednesday, May 1, 2024 from 11:15 AM to 12:15 PM, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.
Committal service will occur Wednesday, May 1, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038.
You are encouraged to come with your hot rod or classic car to celebrate his passion.
PALLBEARERS
Roger Boisjolie
Bryan Popp
Matt Bennekemper
Richard de Verteuil
Daniel Monroe
Mizael Saucedo
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