Kenneth B. Cook

Danville – Kenneth B. Cook, 96, of Danville passed away at 12:27 PM on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at his home. He was born January 13, 1930, in Danville to James B. and Tillie F. (Kirk) Cook. He married Katherine W. Brake on September 14, 1956, in Danville. She preceded him in death on July 2, 1998.

He is survived by four children, Kathy (David) Triplett of Chandler, TX, Robert “Bob” Cook of Clinton, IA, Nancy Cook of Danville, and Karen Grooms of Danville; seven grandchildren, Marlene (Thomas) McDade, Tabatha Huss, Emily Cook, Katey Huss, Donald Drullinger, Amber Drullinger, and Blaine Huss; three great grandchildren, Katherine McDade, Ayven Huss, and Zayden Drullinger; sister, Helen (Ray) Putnam and a brother, Wilbur Cook; sister-in-law, Shirley Mae Cook; and other extended family and friends.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Phil Grooms; and six siblings, Elwood Cook, Carroll Cook, Dorothy French, Franklin Cook, and infant sisters, Deloris and Tillie Cook.

After graduating from Bismarck High School in 1948, Kenneth served his country by enlisting in the United States Army and was deployed overseas during the Korean War. However, his service did not stop when he left active duty. Ken was active in the National Korean War Veterans Association as well as the local Robert Wurtsbaugh Chapter of the Korean War Vets. Due to his efforts, he was selected as the National Delegate for the 50th anniversary of the Korean Freedom Day and traveled overseas twice to represent his country. Kenneth also was instrumental in applying for and awarding grants to the VA Illiana Health Care System in Danville and was able to improve the lives of his fellow veterans through that work.

When he returned home from the service, Kenneth began work at the Rossville Canning Company where he met his beloved wife of 42 years, Katherine. After a short time, he began his career as a truck driver which he continued until the age of 80. Growing up on a family farm also meant that Ken was well-known in the area for the impressive garden that he maintained on his property. Some also knew him for the bees he kept and the honey he would give out as gifts. Working outdoors also meant fixing and tuning his tractor; a 1947 Model H that he was especially proud of. He also loved listening to Bluegrass music and sports. Sports especially were a big part of his life and he was a avid baseball fan, especially the Chicago Cubs. In his earlier days, he and his brothers even had their own baseball team, the “Cooks.” Aside from baseball, Ken could often be found cheering on the Illini and Chicago Bears.

A service to celebrate the life of Kenneth B. Cook will be held at 2 PM on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Vermilion Heights Christian Church in Danville. Pastor Rod Godley will officiate. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 2-4 PM on Sunday, January 25, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL, 61834. Memorials in his name may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Please join Kenneth’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.