Bernice Ann Cook
September 4, 1941 ~ February 26, 2021
Bernice Ann Cook, 79, born September 4, 1941 in Gilkey, Arkansas, passed away on February 27, 2021. Bernice received a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from University of Arkansas Medical School in 1963. She married Edward Cook on July 8, 1962. They moved to Wichita in 1973 and raised two daughters. Bernice was a Life Master-level duplicate bridge player, Assistance League volunteer, and faithful member of East Heights United Methodist Church. She was a gifted seamstress and enjoyed playing backgammon, volunteering, traveling, reading, and working puzzles. She was known for her smile and devotion to her friends and family.
She is survived by her daughters, Shayna Cook of Chicago, IL and Cindy Cook (Kyle Hardwick); grandchildren, Brayden and Brianna Cook Hardwick of League City, TX; her siblings Nina Sullivan, Danny (Barbara) Stahl, Arlene (Russell) Thomas, Loretta (Boyd) Dickey, Sherman (Marilyn) Stahl, Angie (Bob) Barnett, Carol (Roger) Massey, Mike (Tena) Stahl, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernie and Frankie Mae Stahl, and husband, G. Edward Cook, M.D. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established in her honor to the Assistance League of Wichita and East Heights UMC. Memorial Service will be at 2:00 pm, Sunday, February 28, 2021. Service can be viewed by clicking "Watch Event" below. Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
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I will always, always remember how warm and funny and effortlessly welcoming and hospitable Mrs. Cook/Mop was. She was a waystation in the midst of an epic post-college road trip, a magical seamstress who produced a better than the pattern deserved version of a bridesmaid’s dress for her beautiful daughter, Shayna, in my wedding, a bestower of handmade treasures when my son was born, and always always a proud and loving support for a dear heart-friend whose own gift for humor, keen intelligence, and inner strength have a clear maternal source. I am forever grateful to her and send love and wishes for comfort in remembering to all her family and friends. Much love, Katy
Bernice was a wonderful and kind hearted woman, she always gave the best hugs. I have not seen her in a few years, but I remember her and them like it was yesterday. My sincere condolences to the entire Stahl and Cook families.
Shayna, my condolences to you and family. To have a daughter like you, I know your Mom must have been an incredible, incredible woman. All my love during this difficult time. ~ Daphne Mazarakis
I am so sorry to hear this. Your mother was a wonderful woman and so dedicated to her family. She will be sorely missed by all of us in her East Heights family. Shayna & Cindy – please accept my deepest sympathy
Shayna we are so sorry for your loss. We are thinking about you and your family at this time. Your mother was so delightful and we enjoyed meeting her at Thanksgiving. We love you, Amy Steve Madeline and Max Dolinsky
Shayna and Cindy, Know that we carry your pain in our hearts. Bernice was a light, at least as we knew her. Carry her memory as a light to you. With great care, Dru and Ron
Shayna and Cindy, Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your Mother. Bernice and I met when Shayna and John were in Kindergarten. Over the years we often saw each other at school events and church gatherings. It was always a joy to visit with her. I will miss her and will always remember her cheerful outlook and wonderful smile. Thoughts and prayers. JaneMurphy
Shayna and Cindy I’m sitting here watching this beautiful memorial for Mop and the gigantic love and light that was your mother is overpowering. The memories rush up in a flood – her delicious Hershey’s kiss cookies, her endless patience with Ed’s ribbing, her easy genuine laughter, the romance novels she inhaled at record speed, the love and support she showed no matter what was said or done, her humble, quiet brilliance and endlessly forgiving heart. She is with God now in form, as she always was in spirit. So much love, Elizabeth
Our thoughts are with your family. We enjoyed knowing Bernice thru East Heights UMC. We got to know Cindy and Shayna with Young Spirit activities. Bernice would tell our sewing group about her visits with the girls and her grandkids and traveling with friends. Jan and Larry Frutiger
Ed and Bernice were always some of our favorite people at East Heights. My kiddos were in the children’s program there when Shayna and Cindy were in youth. I’m so sorry to hear of Bernice’s passing. Just wanted to let you know I will remember them fondly.
Wayne and I extended our deepest sympathy to Shayna and Cindy in the loss of your mother, Bernice. She was a delightful lady who had strong values and courage. Shayna, your remarks were wonderful. Cindy, your mother would be so proud that you honored her by playing the piano. Blessings to all of the extended family. She will be missed by so many who loved her.
Dear Shayna, Cindy and family, I’m so sorry to hear that Bernice passed. I recall her wit, warmth and gracious presence expressed through that soft Arkansas accent throughout childhood, adolescence and beyond at school and at East Heights. Wishing you and yours healing through storytelling and fond memories during this tender time. Blessings, John Murphy