By Beacon Staff
A Burlington legend passed away on Wednesday night (June 24).
Bob Cook wasn’t a household name because of his success, though he had plenty of it. Everyone around town is familiar with Grandpa’s Ice Cream. Enjoying a scoop or two of homemade ice cream at his shop on Roosevelt Avenue is an authentic Burlington experience.
Cook’s loyal following was built not just on his business acumen but also on his kindness and geniality. The tasty ice cream was often just an excuse to visit Grandpa’s Ice Cream — chatting with Bob was the real draw. Some folks just referred to him as "Dad". The younger ones called him "Grandpa".
A Vietnam Navy veteran who began his career at Witte Drug, Cook later owned and operated Photovisions, U.S. Cellular, Satellite TV, and finally, Grandpa’s Ice Cream.
Grandpa’s Ice Cream has been decorated by balloons and tribute posters saying goodbye. The Burlington Beacon will add its tribute by providing an in-depth profile of Bob’s life soon.
The following is Mr. Cook’s obituary courtesy of Lunning Chapel.
Mr. Robert “Bob” J. Cook, 71 of Burlington, died at 10:03 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at Great River Hospice House, West Burlington, Iowa.
Born June 7, 1949, in Keokuk, he was the son of Jack Christy and Mary Jane (Gray) Cook.
Bob graduated in 1967 from Revere High School in Revere, Mo. In 1968 he joined the United States Navy, serving during the Vietnam War. He married Gwen Elizabeth Stancil May 29, 1969, in Pensacola, Fla.
His many hobbies included hot air ballooning, carpentry, photography, and reading. He loved Mt. Dew, traveling, telling stories, and taking his whole family to the ocean.
He was a member of First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ.
Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Gwen of Burlington; three children, Robbie (Becky) Cook of Burlington; Amy (Jeff) Eggar of Iowa Falls, IA, and Jason Cook of Burlington; nine grandchildren, Elizabeth, Kelly, Abby, Allison, Karly, Aidan, Jack, Sage, and Kale; and two sisters, Linda Heinze and Leta Cary.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Roger and Rick.
The celebration of life for Mr. Cook will be 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 1st at Lunning Chapel. Mr. Jared McAfee will officiate. Inurnment will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery at a later date.
Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, at Lunning Chapel, where the family will receive friends. Military rites will be conducted by the Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard.
Cremation has been entrusted to Lunning Chapel. A memorial has been established for Hope Lodge at Mayo Clinic.