Harmon “Vern” Cook Jr., 76, of West Melbourne, Florida, died Thursday, August 28, 2025, unexpectedly in Burlington, Iowa.
Born on February 16, 1949, in Bluefield, West Virginia, he was the son of Harmon and Sallie (Haymes) Cook Sr. He married Kay King and later divorced. On June 30, 2001, in Burlington, Iowa he married “the woman of his dreams” Pamela Cutright.
Vern was a 1967 graduate of Pocahontas High School in Pocahontas, Virginia. After high school he worked for Norfolk Southern Railway until he decided to join the United States Air Force. After his service in the United States Air Force, he worked again at Norfolk Southern Railway and then obtained a bachelor’s degree from Toledo Ohio University. Vern also obtained a license in private investigation. For forty-two years he worked as a private investigator until his retirement in 2014. He was a board member of Associated Detectives and Security Agencies of Illinois, and was president from 2008-2009. He was also appointed by the governor to serve as a member of the review board for violations of Licensed Detectives. He was of Baptist faith and was a lifelong member of the V.F.W.
In Vern’s free time he enjoyed going fishing and golfing. He loved to cook, especially grilling on the BBQ. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan and loved watching basketball, specifically college March Madness. Vern loved living a good life in Florida but he loved nothing more than being with his friends and family, whom brought him the most joy.
He is survived by his wife Pam of West Melbourne, Florida; two daughters: Lisa (Darren) Crowder of Bolivar, Missouri and Jennifer (John) Pender of Burlington, Iowa; three granddaughters: Samantha Pender of Burlington, Iowa, Lily and Lauren Crowder of Bolivar, Missouri and sister Shirley Edwards of Starke, Florida. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Scott Cook; sister Bobbie Jean Billings and step son Robert McKee.
Per his wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.