Claudia Rae Cook, 72, passed away peacefully in her sleep Oct. 22, 2016. She was in good health at the time of her passing. Claudia Rae was the youngest daughter of Hazel (Standley) and Everett Cook. Born March 22, 1944 in Goodland, she spent much of her early life growing up in Winona. Claudia was born developmentally disabled, but never let such things keep her from having a good day. Claudia’s father was the local postman, and the family also owned and ran the local hotel and café in Winona. Claudia spent her childhood assisting in the family business before her family later moved to Oakley. After the passing of her parents Claudia spent the rest of her life in resident care. Her sister Cleo (Cook) Foutz acted as her primary guardian and caregiver during that time.
Claudia was an inspiration to the many people that loved her. Everyone in her family and resident community family have nothing but great memories and stories to share about Claudia. A great lover of animals, she enjoyed time in their company whether it was at the zoo, in the company of a pet or amongst her expansive collection of stuffed animals. Quite an artist as well, she enjoyed thousands of hours spent drawing, painting and coloring. Claudia was a kind soul and gentle in nature, but also had quite the spitfire streak in her spirit, which lent her a great enjoyment of playful teasing. It is that gentle friendliness for which she will be most remembered, there was always a smile or handshake to be had from her; and a hug for those closest to her. She was much loved by all that knew her.
Claudia Rae was preceded in death by her parents Hazel (Standley) Cook and Everett Cook, her brothers Aubrey Cook and Cleve Cook, and sisters Cleo (Cook) Foutz and Lorraine (Cook) Merica. She is survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins, along with her resident family at ResCare, Great Bend.
A service in memory of Claudia Rae Cook will be held Saturday, Nov. 19 at the First United Methodist Church, 501 Belleview Ave., Winona, at 10:30 a.m. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.

Funeral arrangements provided by
Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel**
2509 Vine
Hays, KS 67601
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 6, 2016