Barbara Sue Cook, age 73, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Monday, October 28, 2024, at Our House Senior Living – Austin Memory Care. Barbara was born January 21, 1951, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Jay and Olive (Hanson) Simonson. She graduated with the class of 1969 from Austin High School. She worked in several different occupations, spending the last 20 years of her career as a daycare licenser for Freeborn County, retiring in 2006. On June 6, 1970, Barbara was united in marriage to Alan Cook at Grace Lutheran Church in Austin and was a faithful and loving wife for 54 years. Their union was blessed with four children and seven grandchildren, with whom Barb loved to spend time. There are many fond memories of Grandma making favorite meals, baking cookies, and playing card games for hours. In addition to spending time with her family, Barb loved music, reading, casino trips, fishing, and during her final year, doting on a family dog named Lacie. Barb is remembered as a selfless, compassionate, and generous person who delighted in serving others. She had a fun sense of humor and a contagious smile. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Barbara S. Cook

Survivors include her husband, Alan Cook of Glenville, Minnesota; children, Chad (Tammy) Cook of Austin, Minnesota, Shelly (Thaine) Lassahn of Farmington, Minnesota, Tanya (Tom) Wicks of Austin, Minnesota, and Nicholas (Marie Saylor) Cook of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; seven grandchildren, Levi, Becca, David, Calvin, Alex, Jenna, and Logan; two brothers, Barry and Bradley; two sisters, Sharon and Shirley, many nieces and nephews, and lifelong friend, Karen. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jay and Olive Simonson.

A private family service will be held. Services are prearranged and performed by Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home of Austin. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.