Michael Adrian Cook

Celebrating Michael Adrian Cook, who left us on December 13, 2024, 73 years young. Born in Fresno on June 8, 1951, to Adrian and Aldine Cook. Mike was a Sierra man through and through, living in the mountains for all his adult life. As a child he loved art, swimming, boy scouts, cheerleading, and exploring. He built a beautiful life in Twain Harte with his wife Deborah where he worked for the Forest Service, grew a pottery business, and gained a love for geology. He then returned to his hometown in Oakhurst where he married Sheyla and thrived in his art and construction work. Knowing Mike meant understanding compassion, he strived to serve and help others in all he did, both locally (firefighting/caring for his neighbors) and globally (Philippines/Shi Lanka Relief). Mike is survived by his children: Nina Currie (Scott) and their children Paul, Ben, and Jaelynn; Bryan Cook and his daughter Lakota (Thomas) and their children Miko, Kenai, and Sequoia; Nick Montagnoli (Amanda) and their children Madoline, Charlotte, and Remi; and Alexa Montagnoli. He also leaves behind his sister Linda Norman (Patrick) and their children Tyson, Bethany, and Addi; and his brother Russell Cook (Terri) and their children Hayley, Clayton, and Coleman. Mike loved his friends like they were is own family. He loved his BIG dogs, they held a special place in all he did (Ginger, JimDandy, Penny, Pumpkin, Blue, Campbell, Aika, Rose, Rouger, Loki, and Moose).

His love for exploring the mysteries of this world was seen daily as he read his Bible and asked questions. Mike had a wonderful and unique way of putting his ideas together and understood how loved he was. He would say that he was a masterpiece of God, and his job on earth was to love others like Jesus did. He always had grace and compassion for those around him, and had a way of letting you know you were also a treasured masterpiece. He not only accepted, but loved the great mystery of all his other questions and ideas that perpetuated his thoughts. He loved the beauty in the art he saw all around himself, and was known for his ability to incorporate nature, geometry, science, and culture into his pottery, oil paintings, watercolors, writings, and ink drawings. His creations and love captivated our whole family. He enjoyed creating illustrated philosophical booklets to share with us, especially his son Bryan.

Mike had a way of touching lives wherever he went. Whether it was through his art, his helpfulness, or just his big heart, he made the world a brighter place. We'll miss you, Mike. Thanks for all the memories, the many laughs, and the love.

Celebration of Life Open House will be held at Michael Cook's home at 50300 Road 420 Coarsegold California on December 27th from 1-5pm. Come celebrate with his favorite BBQ, enjoy his art, sit by a bonfire (weather permitting), and enjoy the music and pictures of the great Mike Cook.

Family and close friends graveside service at Oakhill Cemetery will be held on December 27th at 10am.