Gene Raymond Cook

Gene Raymond Cook

1941 ~ 2025

Gene R. Cook, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and devoted servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully in his home on September 8, 2025, at the age of 84. 

Born on September 1, 1941, in Lehi, Utah, to Clarence H. and Myrl Thornton Cook, Gene's early years were marked by the warmth of family and the spirit of adventure. As an infant, he lived briefly in Lehi before the family moved to Boise, Idaho, and later to Mesa, Arizona, seeking relief for his father's arthritis in the milder climate. It was in Mesa that Gene grew into a young man of faith and determination, serving a full-time mission in the Uruguay Paraguay Mission from 1960 to 1963. Upon his return, he married his eternal companion, Janelle Schlink, in the Mesa Arizona Temple on November 29, 1963. Their union was a cornerstone of his life, filled with shared joys, challenges, and an unwavering commitment to one another and their growing family.

Gene pursued his education at Arizona State University in Tempe, earning a bachelor's degree in business management followed by an MBA. His professional journey began at Mountain States Bell Telephone Company and led him to a fulfilling career with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, where he advanced through roles that allowed him to serve others with integrity and kindness. A pivotal moment came when, after prayerful consideration, he relocated his family of four to Bountiful, Utah, embracing new opportunities that aligned with his deepest values. Throughout his life and callings, Gene's powerful leadership and genuine love for people left a lasting impact on colleagues and church members alike.

Yet, it was in his service to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that Gene truly shone, dedicating decades to building the kingdom of God. From his days as a young missionary to his calling as a member of the First Council of the Seventy in 1975, Gene's ministry touched countless lives across the globe. He served in numerous leadership roles mission president in Uruguay/Paraguay, area president in Mexico and Central America, and counselor in various area presidencies throughout North and South America, Europe, and beyond. With his family traveling and moving by his side, they lived in Uruguay, Ecuador, Peru, Mexico, Germany and Atlanta Georgia fostering faith and unity among the Saints. Gene also contributed as an author of inspirational books, booklets, and CDs, sharing insights drawn from his profound testimony of the gospel—gained at just 12 years old through the Book of Mormon.  He served with total devotion despite having multiple chronic illnesses that affected him every day of his life. He was named a General Authority Emeritus in October 2007, a fitting recognition of his lifelong devotion. Even in his later years, Gene remained a missionary at heart, cherishing moments like "investigator firesides" and contacting everyone in his daily path where he could bear witness of Christ's love.

Gene's family was always his greatest joy and priority, and he had a unique ability to gather, direct, and energize them through every season of life. Nothing held him back—whether tackling endless yardwork, leading scripture study, or embarking on creative outdoor explorations. He was deeply affectionate and tender with his wife and children, ensuring they always felt his unwavering love. Gene went above and beyond, singing and memorizing songs and scriptures with his family, and making time for simple pleasures like leisurely walks around the block or learning about trees and chatting with neighbors. Through trials, moves, and changes, he consistently carved out moments for deep, meaningful connections with each child. Grounded by his daily habits of prayer, scripture study, and journaling, Gene centered his life on faith and family, turning ordinary days into cherished memories of laughter, learning, and love.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Janelle; his children: Troy (Renee Stubbs), Travis (Ashlee Ethington), Terrell (Cindy Bennion), Jenny (Brian Thueson), Holly (Scott Jensen) , Jared (Allyson Rose) , Jason (Sally Riskedahl) , and Shelly (Taylor Jensen) ; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his siblings: Carol (Chuck Hiatt)  and Harvey (Anne Stevens) . He is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Myrl Cook, and his brother Ron (Marilyn Freeman) .

A viewing will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Lehi North Stake Center Chapel, located at 650 East 3200 North Lehi, Utah 84043. Funeral services will follow on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lehi North Stake Center, with an additional viewing from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will take place at the Lehi Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the General Missionary Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Condolences may be shared on the mortuary website.

Gene's life was a beautiful testament to faith, family, and selfless service. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the light he brought to all who knew him.

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