On December 2nd at 2:33 AM Glen E. Cook, age 80, a proud United States Army veteran passed away surrounded by those who loved him. Glen was the cherished husband of Amparo, beloved father to Brian (wife, Jieun) and Stephany (husband, Joshua) along with the late Anthony. He was an admired Uncle to many nieces and nephews, and friend to all. Glen reunites with his brothers (Estel, Gene, Garland, Harold, Clyde) and sister (Mary) in heaven. Born with a personality and spirit that could fill any room, Glen lived his life with strength, humor, and heart. He was known for his goofiness, funny faces, unexpected jokes, ever growing list of nicknames for friends and family and perfectly timed one-liners that could lift anyone’s mood. His sly smile and laughter was unmistakable, his joy contagious and he was always trying to help your day be brighter.
Glen served with Honor in the U.S. Army, carrying the discipline, courage, and resilience that would define and follow him for the rest of his life. He approached every challenge with the same soldier spirit, never backing down, never giving up, always pushing forward to the next day.
Glen was a loving husband and devoted father whose soul shaped the lives of his family. He cherished his quiet moments at home just as deeply as the loud moments on his daily adventures, whether sharing stories, or simply being present with the people who meant the most to him. Glen’s love of music made it so he had an eternal soundtrack following him wherever he went. From good ole’ country tunes, to Taylor Swift or anything with a good beat, he found joy and comfort in melody. It was rare to see him without a song humming along in the background or singing from his lips, especially when he would come up with new lyrics.
Glen was also an avid Bears fan and loved spending his free time watching sports, often jokingly complaining about his favorite teams, as all of us in Chicago tend to do. Throughout his 80 years, Glen faced every battle, celebrated every moment of joy, and embraced every day with courage, loyalty and love in his heart. The many who knew him will remember a man of humor and bravery, a man who loved deeply, lived fully, and never stopped being exactly who he was. A man and name recognizable anywhere you went.
Through his wife, children, and loved ones he leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and love—a testament to a life well lived and a man well remembered. May he rest with his family in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him as he waits with open arms to welcome us to our next journey.
Visitation Tuesday December 9, 2025 from 10-1 P.M. at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home 4920 Main St., Downers Grove followed by 1 P.M. Funeral Service. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. info 630-852-8000 or westsuburbanfh.com
Rest in peace Mr. Cook! He was a genuinely kind man whose smile could brighten anyone’s day He laughed with warmth, shared joy so easily, and even took the time to color me a beautiful French Bulldog picture that I’ll treasure forever. Thank you, Mr. Cook, for your kindness, your light, and the simple moments that meant so much. You will be deeply missed, but always remembered.