James W. Cook

James W. "Jimmy" Cook, age 78, of Toledo, passed away peacefully, Friday, May 9, 2008 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 5, 1930 to James and Irene (Bowles) Cook in Flint, Michigan. Jimmy met and married the love of his life, Janet E. Baughan in Flint, MI on November 3, 1951. They lived in Flint until 1963 when Jimmy went with General Motors/AC Delco and transferred to Toledo. Jimmy was a member of the Toledo Federation of Musicians and founder of the Toledo Jazz Society with Harold Jaffe. He played with numerous bands, primarily the Parker-Cook Quintet. Jimmy was a Toledo icon and often referred to as the "Dean" of jazz. He was a permanent fixture at Rusty's Jazz Lounge and was loved and touched by everyone who had the opportunity to meet him. In his spare time, Jimmy cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and his antique toy collection. He will be deeply missed by all of those who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Michael Cook and sister, Patricia (Bob) Bunch. Jimmy is survived by his loving wife of almost 57 years, Janet (Baughan) Cook; brother-in-law, Denny (Laura) Baughan; children, Jim (Judy), William (Deb), Scott and Suzanne (Chuck); grandchildren, Jason (Sherry), Jessie (Shawn), Mike, Will, Brandon, Ryan (Connie), Alexa, Brady, Gary, Quinn and Kyle; 5 great grandchildren; and a host of dear friends.

The family will receive guests on Monday from 2 – 8:00 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd., Toledo (419-473-0300). Funeral Services will begin Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. in the funeral home.

Those wishing to make monetary donations are asked to consider the Toledo Jazz Society or the Toledo Federation of Musicians.