Donovan Cook

Donovan W. Cook, 67, Topeka, Kansas, passed away June 16, 2010 at Midland Hospice House. Donovan was born December 19, 1942 in Lakota, Iowa the son of John and Faith Willsie Cook. He attended Buena Vista College, Mankato State, and Virginia Tech where he received his doctorate degree. He was a world traveler and worked several years in Libya before becoming a professor in the education department at Washburn University where he taught for over 20 years. He also ran the National Sports Youth Program (NYSP) for under priviledged children at Washburn University during the summer months for many years. He retired from Washburn in 2009 with Emeritus status not only an educator but a friend to many of his students who stayed in contact with him after their graduation. Donovan was a fan of the New York Yankees, KU basketball, and all Washburn sports.

He is survived by his wife, Sherilyn and children, Jennifer Cook Grisgby (Ryan), Lawrence, KS; Jamie McDowell, Wichita, KS; Geoffrey Cook, Topeka, KS; 3 grandchildren; sister, Carmen Cook-Fusaro (Peter), New York, NY. He also had a great love for his animal family, Willow, Sophie, Sadie, and Abby.

A memorial service will be held at Old Stone Church, Maple Hill, Kansas on June 26, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice Care, 200 SW Frazier Cir., Topeka, KS 66606, Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kanab,Utah 84741-5000, or Meals on Wheels, 5724 SW Huntoon, Topeka, KS 66604.