Alan D. Cook

Alan D. Cook, age 91, of Heath, Ohio was born on May 6, 1924, in Biloxi, MS, to the late Ivan and Opal (Kearby) Cook. He passed away at his residence on January 23, 2016 while surrounded by his loving family.Alan proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Corp during WWII. He graduated from Geneva High School and continued his education, graduating from The Ohio State University, with a Masters Degree in Horticulture. Prior to retirement, Alan was the Director of Horticulture at The Dawes Arboretum. After his retirement, he served as a Horticultural Consultant. He was a member of Central Christian Church in Newark, where he was a Sunday school teacher. He was a long time member of the Newark Rotary Club, was recognized as a Paul Harris recipient.Alan was a member of numerous professional horticulture organizations, where he served in many different capacities, from president to board member. He also wrote many horticulture articles that were published, and wrote a column for the Newark Advocate for many years. Alan was devoted to his family and profession, and was an avid Cleveland sports fan and Ohio State Buckeye sports fan.Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Margaret (Bickel) Cook, whom he married July 8, 1949; daughters, Sandy (Joe) Wagner and Jenny (Kent) Cook Herreman; son, Toby (Deb) Cook; grandchildren, Elizabeth Wagner, Alan Cook and Ryan Cook; sister, Margaret Sprague; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two infant sons.At Alans request, no services or visitation will be observed. Private burial will be held at Obetz Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Alan to Generation Hospice, 1435-A West Main Street, Newark, Ohio 43055 or Central Christian Church, 587 Mt. Vernon Road, Newark, Ohio 43055.Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral and Cremation Service is honored to care for Alan and his family.