Raymond Eugene Cook, age 87, passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at Western Missouri Medical Center in Warrensburg, MO.

Ray led a diverse and fulfilling life, pursuing many interests and careers. He started out working in a flower shop and later established a successful cabinet shop and home-building business. Ray then joined the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller, which allowed him to live in various locations. He even obtained his pilot's license. Eventually, Ray retired from the FAA and settled in Warrensburg in order to be close to Pat's parents and escape the cold Minnesota winters. He partnered with Wayne Means in the Wood 'N' Saw shop, honing his woodworking skills and expanding into a sharpening business. Ray's entrepreneurial spirit led him to start a screen printing business, creating custom tees for his passions, such as running races and running stores. He also pursued his artistic side, enrolling at State Fair College to study art. Ray painted and crafted remarkable sculptures using fused glass.

Ray dedicated countless hours to volunteer work and served on numerous boards. He was a member and former President of Rotary, and played a crucial role in organizing the "Taste of Johnson County" event. In 2019 alone, Ray participated in 42 5K runs, cherishing his running companions and developing deep friendships. He also frequented a variety of exercise classes each week, bonding with his closest friends.

Despite facing physical challenges, Ray's friendships sustained him, and he expressed immeasurable love and gratitude for those who stood by him. There are not enough words to capture the essence of Raymond, but let it be known that this incredible man loved each and every one of you and will be deeply missed.

Ray was a beloved husband of Marilyn for 34 years and Patricia for 32 years. He was a loving father to Randy (Nancy) Cook, Beth Ann Langlois, Christopher (Leanne) Steinbrunn, and Anne Steinbrunn. Ray was an amazing father who took his children on adventures, camping trips, and even gave them chickens to raise. His love extended to his grandchildren: Maddie, Ryan, Fred, Clare, Eva, Eli, and Joey, and he took great pride in his great-grandchildren: Mason, Rylan, and William.

A celebration of life will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 26, 2023 at the Starbucks (800 N. Maguire St.) in Warrensburg, MO.