George Cook

George Edward Cook passed away peacefully July 14, 2011 of natural causes. He was born September 8, 1916 to John and Maggie (Sales) Cook at their homestead near Belgrade. George lived his entire 95 years in the Gallatin Valley. In 1935 he graduated from Belgrade High School. Three years later, in 1938 he married his high school sweet heart, Alice Mae Curtis. Their 73 years of marriage were spent farming and ranching along the West Gallatin River. George lived life to the fullest and he never met anyone who he considered a stranger. All who knew him were touched by his generosity and fun-loving nature. He instilled in his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren that humor and a positive outlook are the part of life that makes every day an adventure. Many guests at his table were treated to a #8220;dribble glass#8221; and you never left his home without taking something with you, whether it be food, a tool or a rock under your gas pedal! George enjoyed horses throughout his life; from his early childhood years of farming with horses to later owning and racing racehorses. His retirement years were spent mainly in his pickup. Most days, armed with a Pepsi and a candy bar, he would drive miles in search of the best poker game in town! George was preceded in death by his parents, John and Maggie (Sales) Cook, brother Clyde Cook, Sister Mae Heiskill Freeman and grandson George T. Place. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Alice, his sons Gene (Marlys )Cook, and Gary (Joan) Cooks, his daughters Darlene (Vince) Guhin and Deanne Place all of Bozeman and Dan Place of Townsend. His grandchildren: Kristan (Ron) Cook, Kody (Dave) Lyons, Kevin (Heather) Cook, Jacy (Karyn) Cook, Jeff (Sarah) Cook, Emily (Scott) Eaton, Amy (Michael) McAuliffe, Betsy (Phil) Hedrick, Merry (Seth) Halverson, Molly (Mike) Stenberg and Regan (Lynae) Place survive along with 27 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at Dahl Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, July 26, 2011 at 11 AM. Cremation has taken place and graveside services will follow at Meadow View Cemetery outside of Manhattan. A reception in George#8217;s honor will be held at the George and Alice Cook home on River Road immediately following interment. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in George#8217;s name to the Gallatin Valley 4-H Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.