A. Cook

Ann Shirley Cook (nee Kotowski) of Bettendorf, Iowa was born 28 January 1938 in Baltimore, Maryland. She was the daughter of Iris V. Kirby and Edward J. Kotowski.

Shirley was married to Earl A Cook in Baltimore, MD on 9 February 1957. They moved to Davenport, Iowa in the mid 1960’s.

Shirley soon began her life long career in medicine and education. She became a registered nurse in 1975, eventually becoming Charge Nurse of Labor/Delivery at Osteopathic Hospital in Davenport. She went on to earn three more degrees: a B.S. from St. Ambrose University and a D. C, from Palmer College of Chiropractic, both in Davenport. Her final degree was a M.S. in Education from Western Illinois University.

Shirley’s career spanned multiple aspects of teaching and healthcare. She was the director of the Chiropractic Technician school at Palmer College as well as an instructor at the main Palmer College campus. In later life, Shirley became a Stephen’s minister through First Presbyterian church and eventually a chaplain for several QC area hospitals.

Shirley was an avid vocalist for most of her life, singing with the Sweet Adelines, her high school choir and church choirs. This love of music and performance was passed on to all her children and grandchildren. She also loved travel of all kinds, with one of her favorite trips being a cruise along the inner passageway in Alaska.

On 25 June 2018, at the age of 80, Shirley won her battle with advanced ALS, (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), and passed peacefully at Genesis East in Davenport, Iowa.

Both of Shirley’s parents preceded her in death. Those left to honor her love of life are her three children: Dr Brenda Cole of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Linda (Mark) Ruebling of Davenport and Christopher (Kelly) of Jackson, Missouri. Seven grandchildren: Ryan Ruebling, Laura Ruebling (Brett Shreiner), Zachary Cook (Richelle), Jen McKay (Jerod), JD Fecht, Ryan Fecht and Alex Cole. There are also three great grandchildren: Noah, Grace and Maeve.

Shirley’s wishes were to be cremated and her remains scattered in water. There will be no memorial service. Contributions in her memory may be made to the ALS society or to a charity of the donor’s choice.