Dean Cook

Howard Dean Cook, age 59 of Woolmarket, went to join our Lord on August 8th, 2021, surrounded by his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Cook and Evelyn Bixler-Cook; and four brothers David Cook, Charles Cook, Ronald Cook and Robert Cook.

Dean leaves behind his loving wife of 29 years, Rhonda VanHuss-Cook; his beloved children, Ryan Cook and Rebecca Cook; siblings, Jimmy Cook (Darlene) Ocean Springs, MS, Judy Cook-Gaston (Mike) Gulfport, MS, Paul Cook (Teresa) Pensacola, FL, Arlene Cook-Lobianco (Freddie) Gulfport, MS, Joyce Cook-Stelly (Stephen) Gulfport, MS; two sisters-in-law, Nancy Cook Biloxi, MS, and Susan Cook Somerville, TX; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Dean was born in Biloxi, MS, and raised in Gulfport, MS. He was a 1979 graduate of Gulfport High School. He began working at The Sun Herald as a pressman. During his 40 year career, he held numerous positions, and upon his retirement held the position of Pressroom Manager.

A life-long classic car enthusiast, Dean and his children lovingly restored his 1973 Plymouth ‘Cuda with which he was an annual participant of Crusin' the Coast. Dean was honored to serve as Gulfport High School’s MCJROTC Booster President from 2011 until his passing. He enjoyed traveling to various states to support his children and all the other cadets in competitions. Upon retirement, he pursued he and his family’s dream of owning and operating their own food trailer. Dean especially enjoyed serving the community and the friendships that he forged. He also loved participating in local barbeque competitions at which he won multiple awards. Dean was an animal lover especially devoted to the family pets Mickey and Mindy and his grand pups “Sweetie Tater” and “Luna Belle”, and his many ducks, chickens, and bunnies.

In all the things that Dean loved in his life, he valued time spent with his family and friends above all. As much as he will be deeply missed by all; he wanted us to find comfort in a celebration of his life in true “Dean” fashion. Please join us in celebrating his life and honoring his memories at 2:00 pm, Sunday, September 19, 2021 at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, with a visitation from 1:00pm until the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital or The Humane Society of South Mississippi https://hssm.org/donate-today/