Wayne Alben Cook

Wayne Alben Cook

Jan. 27, 1982 - July 18, 2024

McCOOK, Neb. - Wayne Alben Cook passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024. Born on Jan. 27, 1982, in Oberlin, Kan., to Merlin A. and Vickie L. (Province) Cook, Wayne spent his early years on a farm south of McCook, where he developed a deep love for animals and participated in 4-H. Wayne attended McCook Public Schools and graduated in 2000, later earning an associate’s degree in construction from Mid-Plains Community College.

Wayne married Jenny L. Lukas on July 24, 2004. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared passions, including hunting, fishing, woodworking, and tool collecting. Wayne had a fulfilling career with the State of Nebraska Department of Roads, where he painted roads and managed snow removal, forming close bonds with his coworkers.

In 2017, Wayne joyfully became an uncle to Emmett James Laya and treasured his role in the lives of his nieces and nephews, visiting family in California when he could and spending time with his cousins’ children. In 2016, Wayne and Jenny returned to McCook, where Wayne worked for the City of McCook at the solid waste transfer station. He took great pride in his work and was dedicated to building relationships with “family” (everyone!).

Wayne is preceded in death by his father, Merlin Cook; aunt, Brenda Smith; uncles, Harold Cook and Ed Quaduor; grandparents, Bob and Neva Province, Wade and Grace Cook, Louis Parks, Larry Lukas, and Cathy Hilderbrand; and his beloved dogs, Pebbles, Sophie, Samantha, Addie, and Bailey.

He is survived by his wife, Jenny; mother, Vickie; sister, Cristy (Joshua) Laya and nephew, Emmett; half-sisters, Tami, Susan, and Nancy; sister-in-law, Amy Wherley; brother-in-law, Ryan Lukas; step-siblings, Jessica Beschnet and her children, Matt (Alexis) Ortiz and their son, Kelsey (Evan) Plankinhorn and their children; mother-in-law, Vickie (David) Ortiz; father-in-law, Mike (Sherri) Lukas; uncle, Rick (Paris) Province; aunt, Connie Quaduor; uncle, Gary (Sandy) Parks; aunt, Barb Parks; numerous cousins and their children; and so many friends.

Wayne will be remembered for his kind heart, love for his family, and passion for life.

Cremation was chosen and visitation will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2024 form 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook.

A celebration of life service is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Friday, July 26, 2024 at McCook Christian Church with Pastor Mike Roth officiating.

Memorials, in Wayne’s name, are suggested to the McCook Humane Society. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook