Gary Dean Cook, a devoted leader, entrepreneur, and community servant, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and service. Born on March 18, 1947, in Canadian, Texas, Gary built a life defined by his unwavering commitment to family, faith, business, and public service.

A graduate of West Texas State University with a B.S. in Biology and Chemistry and an MBA, Gary's leadership qualities were evident from an early age. During his time at the university he served as Class President, Student Body President, Assistant Dean of Student Life, and sat on a student leaders advisory committee to the sitting US President, roles that foreshadowed his lifelong dedication to leadership and service.

Gary's professional journey was marked by significant accomplishments in the telecommunications industry. He served as Founder and President of multiple companies, including Starcom, Inc., C&K Communications, Inc., and Professional Answer, Inc. Prior to that, he founded and led Southwestern Telecom, Inc., and served as manager for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. His expertise and business acumen earned him numerous accolades, including Texas Business's Rising Star and Wichita Falls Small Businessman of the Year.

Beyond his professional success, Gary loved his country and was deeply involved in his community. He spent 8 years in the United States Army Reserve, obtaining the rank of Captain before concluding his active duty commitment in 1978. He served as the Mayor of Wichita Falls, Texas, from 1982-1986, during which time he worked with the Army Corps of Engineers to develop flood control for Wichita Falls. Using dirt from that project, he was able to gain state approval for completion of the long-planned Kell Freeway. He was a tireless champion for the Sheppard Air Force Base Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program (ENJJPT) and established the Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany sister city relationship with Wichita Falls. He was recognized with the Sheppard Contributor Award.

He held numerous leadership positions in local and state organizations, including the Texas Municipal League, North Texas Housing Finance Corporation, and the Wichita Falls Symphony, where he served as Board President. He served as Wichita County Chairman for the Federal Emergency Management Administration and was a member of the Wichita Falls Independent School Board. His commitment to civic engagement was also evident through his work with the Salvation Army, YMCA, United Way, Boy Scouts of America, and The Texas Association of Business where he served as the Region 5 Chairman and Chair of the Small Business Committee.

A man of deep faith, Gary was an active member of First Christian Church in Wichita Falls, where he served as Chairman of multiple committees, Deacon, Elder, longtime member of the choir, and Pastor's Class Mentor. His dedication to his faith and community was a testament to his generous spirit and commitment to making the world a better place.

Gary's passions extended beyond his professional and civic life. He found joy in family, music, theater, racquetball, golf, and the restoration of historical homes, including his own. His appreciation for the arts and history reflected his love for preserving and enriching the culture of his community.  His love and support for his children and grandchildren knew no bounds and he enjoyed attending countless events with and for each of them.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Ona Cook, and Una and Joe McClenny, and his nephew Greg Cook.

He is survived by his wife Linda, who Gary credited as the leading inspiration in his life, his staunchest supporter and his rock. He is also survived by his children, Catherine Earley and husband Jon, John Cook and wife Sarah, and Caroline MacDonald and husband Brian, who continue to honor their Dad's memory by embodying the values he cherished. "PopPop" is also survived by his grandchildren Jayme MacDonald, Courtney MacDonald, Kelsey MacDonald, Hannah Earley and fiancé Davis Mays, Davidson Cook, Ethan Earley, Kegan MacDonald, and Adam Cook, as well as his great granddaughter Selena.

Gary is also survived by his brother Jim Cook and wife Prissy, his niece Shannon Cook (wife of nephew Greg) and his nephew Chris and wife Melissa and their children, Jackson and wife Bekka, and Owen.

Gary Dean Cook's life was a testament to hard work, leadership, and unwavering service to others. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A service celebrating his remarkable life will be held at First Christian Church in Wichita Falls on Tuesday, March 18, at 3:00 in the afternoon.