Joseph Evans Cook

 Mr. Joseph E. “Bunny” Cook, age 96, of Brandenburg, KY, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Baptist Health in Louisville, surrounded by his adoring family.  He was born on December 24, 1929, the son of Charles E. and Elizabeth (Bennett) Cook.

     Joe proudly served his country as a Fireman in the United States Navy.  He retired as a shift supervisor for Olin Chemical Company after 32 years of service; was a longtime parishioner of St. John the Apostle Catholic Church; a Kentucky Colonel; and a member of the Brandenburg VFW, Post 11404.  Joe also loved to play golf and bingo with his wife, but adored spending time with all of his children and grandchildren as well.

     Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his great grandson, Braylon Wilson; and his brother, Dan.  He is survived by his loving wife of almost 72 years, Marlene; 8 children, Belinda Cook, Neal Cook, Janette (Steve) Armstrong, Colette (Larry) Robertson, Robyn (Kurt) Horvath, Glenn Cook, Dylan (Mary) Cook, and Kyle (Karen) Cook; 20 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; his sister, Ramona Wilkins; and his brother, Charles Cook.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church, with Father Michael Martin and Father Toan Do officiating.  Burial, with military honors, will follow in St. George Cemetery.  Visitation will be held at Hager Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 21, from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM, and at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of mass on Wednesday.  A vigil service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday evening.  Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the WHAS Crusade for Children, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.