Fairbury: Stephen A. Cook, 53, of Fairbury, died at 8:50 pm, Sunday, March 23, 2008 at his residence in Fairbury.

Cremation rites have been accorded with a memorial service at 7 pm, Thursday, March 27, 2008 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Fairbury, with Pastor Tom Krieger officiating.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm, also at the Church on Thursday, March 27, 2008. Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury has charge of arrangements.

Steve was born March 24, 1954 in Bloomington, the son of William and Madge (Huchel) Cook. He married Barb Ziller on May 19, 2005 in Fairbury. She survives in Fairbury. Steve was a 1972 graduate of Fairbury-Cropsey H.S. and attended Illinois State University, Normal.

Also surviving are his mother: Madge Cook, Fairbury, two daughters; Jennifer Cook, Green Bay, WI, Stephanie Cook, Minocqua, WI, three step-children; Justin Ziller, Bloomington, Scott (Brittany) Ziller, Fairbury, Katie Ziller, Fairbury, one sister; Deb (Ron) Freed, Fairbury, three brothers; Greg (Kathy) Cook, Bloomington, Brian (Connie) Cook, Fairbury, Mike (Jean Francis) Cook, Robinson, IL, two step grandchildren; Ayden and Ethan Ziller both of Fairbury.

He was preceded in death by his father and one brother, Doug Cook.

Steve passed from this life on earth the way he walked through it, with gentle grace, honor and dignity.
Steve was first diagnosed with cancer in April of 2007. Cancer is cruel and heartbreaking, but Steve faced his illness with the greatest of inner strength, courage and determination each and everyday, and through it all he managed to maintain his sense of humor, spirit for life and his warm smile. His main concern was never of him but the people who surrounded him. It was through him that we gathered our strength to cope and accept.

His spirit and love for life was ever present as he continued to embrace the simple pleasures in life and share them with others each and everyday. Throughout his life Steve was a mentor and inspiration to many. That didn't change during his illness. He showed us that even through the cruelty and heartbreak you can still find and share happiness. Everyone has there own visions of what heaven must be like, for Steve, I hope there are warm beaches for him to walk on, majestic mountains for him to stand in front of and look up at in awe, an occasional gentle thunderstorm and crystal clear lakes, rivers, streams for him to cast his line where real time ends and fishing time begins.

I, our loving family, friends and the people whose lives you touched along the way will deeply miss you and cherish your memory for always. Peaceful sleep to you Steve, it is now your time to rest. Love Always, and a Day Barb.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be directed to Make A Wish Foundation or OSF Hospice, Pontiac, IL.