A brief life sketch of Edwin Cottrell Cook is given
by his wife, Mary Elizabeth, as follows:
Edwin Cottrell Cook was the son of George Henry Cook (called Hank) and Elizabeth Hannah Nate Cook (called by everyone as Aunt Lill). The Cottrell in Edwin's name was after his grandmother's surname—Mary Ann Cottrell Nate. Edwin was the third child in a family often children. He was born December 19,1887, in Dingle, Bear Lake County, Idaho. He was a very energetic and industrious boy, well liked by everyone and very popular among the young people, both boys and girls. He attended elementary schools in Dingle and Fielding Academy High School in Paris, Idaho. Edwin filled a very successful mission in the North Western States, 8 December 1909, to the spring of 1912. He had two bad illnesses while on his mission and was hospitalized both times. The first time was with pneumonia and the second time was for typhoid fever. He had been released to go home, he didn't feel well but, of course was anxious to get home to rest. He went to the
train depot to buy his ticket and the ticket agent noticed that he was sick and asked him to get a doctor's statement that his illness was not contagious. He went to the hospital for an examination.
The doctor found him to have a very high fever and put him to bed immediately. His sickness was diagnosed as typhoid fever and a very bad case. In fact, the doctor told the nurse that this Elder would not make it until morning. There was another boy in the same room with the same disease who seemed to be on the road to recovery. However, this boy died during the night and Edwin was on the improvement. The doctor said if the boy who died had as clean a body as Edwin there would have been no doubt about his recovery. Edwin was only home a short time when his father passed away.
Henry and Ethel, his two older siblings, were married, so it fell to Edwin to be the man of the home. His mother often remarked how well he did and how grateful she was for his faith and his clean habits to set the right example to all his younger brothers and sisters. At this time, Edwin was given responsibilities in the ward—in MIA, Sunday School and in Priesthood positions. In 1914, a new bishopric was installed in the Dingle Ward with Warren J. Sirrine, bishop; Edwin C. Cook, first counselor and Edward Smedley, second counselor. All three of these brethren were returned missionaries. At that time they were said to be the youngest bishopric in the Church. Edwin and his fiancee, Mary Elizabeth Oakey, were planning to be married. However, Mary, who was teaching school, wanted to go to college for a year to obtain a Teacher's Life Certificate. But Edwin, now being in the bishopric was advised to get married. Plans were changed and Edwin Cottrell Cook and Mary Elizabeth Oakey were married, 22 September 1915, in the Salt Lake Temple. They were driven to Salt Lake by Woodruff Clark, brother-in-law of Edwin's. Edwin's mother and Mary's oldest sister, Maida, accompanied them. The trip was made in a hurry as Edwin had crops to harvest. Two weeks later, the crops in, Ed and Mary took time for a honeymoon to October General Conference in Salt Lake. There were plenty of things to do and see along with Conference—the Utah State Fair, movies and plays, Salt Air and historic spots—which made a very enjoyable ten days. Ed and Mary had a wonderful and happy life together. Mary Ellen, their first baby was born, 17 August 1916, after much anticipation; but the Lord saw fit to call her home. She died at birth. However, they were blessed with five other lovely children—Ross H. born, 26 October 1918; twin girls, Lily and Lena, born, 8 April 1920; Edwin Oakey, born, 4 September 1924, and Marie, born, 30 October l928. Edwin loved his children very much. He was kind to them and wanted the very best for them. He was twice a bishop. After serving a couple of years as counselor to Warren Sirrine, he was called to serve the Dingle Ward as their Bishop. Bishop Sirrine had decided to continue his schooling at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Edwin
served as Bishop of the Dingle Ward for three years when he felt he needed to establish himself and family more securely. In order to do so, it would be necessary for him to move. He consulted the church authorities about this and was advised to make the move, which he did. Edwin moved with his family to Leslie, Idaho in the Lost River country. This was in August 1919. Edwin and his brother, Sterling, went in as partners on a 120 acre farm. The house was large enough so apartments were arranged for the two families. Ross was the only child then, Sterling and Nellie had been married only a short time. All went well the first year, then most ofthe water rights were taken from this area, so it was nip and tuck to make a meager living. Sterling and Nell decided to move out. Edwin turned one half of the farm, along with the big house, back to the owner and moved to a small house on the part he was keeping. He worked very hard milking cows and raising swine and turkeys. He established a market for turkeys in Pocatello and Blackfoot. For a number of years, turkey raising became an industry for all of Leslie. Edwin was stricken with rheumatic fever and damaged his heart, and left him in poor health.This time, the family moved to Nampa, Idaho in Boise Valley. For a while Edwin felt better and things were going fine. Then pneumonia twice in the same year really left him in worse health. He was indeed loved by all. The whole valley knew him. He passed away, 14 September 1932. This history was written by his wife, Mary, 23 June 1969.
Each of Edwin's children have fond memories of him and the two that have passed on, Ross and Lena, spoke similar words to those by Lily, Ed and Marie. All three of them agree that he possessed the following qualities: He was of a slight build, five foot ten inches tall with a 28 inch waist and a shoe size 6 V2; fine brown hair and hazel eyes. He was mild mannered, patient, hard working, ambitious and very appreciative. He was loving, though not particularly romantic, friendly but also quiet. He loved music and saw that his family were taught to love music and education. All agreed that he was spiritual and had integrity. The girls, who are the best judge, thought him to be handsome. He enjoyed having his hair brushed and head scratched by any of his children who were willing.
His son, Ed, told of the time when his health prevented him from doing the hard work entailed with farming, so he began selling insurance, and became good at it. For the first time in a long time, he had money for a few of the extra's. Ed further tells of an experience with his dad in the early 30's when the Great Depression hit. "Most farmers had flocks of chickens. Dad learned to tell if the hens were laying and he would often cull the chickens out for the farmers buying the ones that weren't laying and then take them in to Swift Packing and sell them. On one of those occasions, I went with him when he took them into Swifts. They gave him a check for them and dad gave it to me to put in the bank. I think I hadn't even started school. I asked him how and he said just go up to the teller window and hand it to them, they will know what to do with it. Scared as I was, I walked a couple of blocks to the bank. A lot of men were standing around outside and I became more scared but I went to the door and couldn't get in. I went to another door with the same result. With all the men watching and not knowing what I was doing, I didn't get any help so I went back to the car to wait for dad. I told him I couldn't get in. He said, that's o.k. I don't know what he did after that, he seemed to know the bank failure was just a part of the time."
Another version of the story on tithing that strengthened the family is Ed's remembrance: "Speaking of culling the chickens, I have another story to tell~Pay your tithing. It was just before Christmas and we were getting ready for church. I was ready and waiting, as I was before I started to school, and my few chores were all done. I heard Dad say to Mom: "Mary, we have just enough money to pay our tithing and nothing to buy the children Christmas-which I think was on the following Wednesday. Mom without hesitation or explaining or asking questions said: "Pay our tithing" and without any reluctance Dad took the tithing to church and paid it. We came home from church and I remember things were very quiet. We didn't do much, Dad and Mom didn't say much. Just as Dad was getting ready to go do the evening chores, milking and feeding the chickens, cows, pigs and horses, the phone rang. It was a man who wanted his chickens culled. He had a very large flock and wanted Dad to do it the next day. As it turned out, the amount Dad made was more than tithing and Christmas needs". One story our brother, Ed, tells is about Bob: "Dad took Ross on a Father and Sons outing. I was deemed too little to go. They
went to Garden Valley on an overnight camp-out with the ward. When they came home, they brought with them a puppy, a kind of cattle dog but not a purebred. We named him, Bob, because he had no tail. Dad trained him well. When he would go out to milk, Bob would have the cows waiting at the barn door. Our fences were poor and quite often the cows would break out or they would be allowed to forage in the fields after the harvest. Dad would call Bob loud enough for the cows to hear and the cows would start to come long before the dog got to them. After dad died, it was my responsibility for the chores and Bob was always there. In fact, for four or five years after dad died, the cows still responded out of habit when I would say, "Here Bob." Bob finally died of a gun shot would that we supposed was from a jealous neighbor.
Ed continues his recollection of his father's death: "We were called home from school and told our daddy was dying. Father took each one of us in his arms and kissed us goodbye. He told us to stay close to the church, obey our mother and take care of her. He died in Mother's arms. Our dog, Bob, for a long time, would sit outside the bedroom window and looking at the heavens would howl in
grief."
The following are excerpts from Edwin C. Cook's missionary journal of 1910, in the bearing of his personal testimony. " I know that Jesus Christ is the son ofthe living God, that He came into the world to offer Himself a sacrifice for sin, that He taught the gospel of salvation and that through the shedding of His blood, He became the Redeemer of Men. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of the Living God, raised up in this, The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times, to establish in the world the true church of Christ. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the only true church in all the world. This knowledge has come to me by the power of the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which the Savior gave to us prior to his crucifixion declaring that He would send a Comforter to His disciples after He had left them. That they, doing the will of the Father, will know of the doctrine, whether it be of God or man. Therefore it is with a great deal of satisfaction that as in the past borne testimony, we DO know that Jesus Christ is the Savior and still bear testimony of this great truth and will in the future bear testimony in spite of ridicule thereof unto the children of men."
by his wife, Mary Elizabeth, as follows:
Edwin Cottrell Cook was the son of George Henry Cook (called Hank) and Elizabeth Hannah Nate Cook (called by everyone as Aunt Lill). The Cottrell in Edwin's name was after his grandmother's surname—Mary Ann Cottrell Nate. Edwin was the third child in a family often children. He was born December 19,1887, in Dingle, Bear Lake County, Idaho. He was a very energetic and industrious boy, well liked by everyone and very popular among the young people, both boys and girls. He attended elementary schools in Dingle and Fielding Academy High School in Paris, Idaho. Edwin filled a very successful mission in the North Western States, 8 December 1909, to the spring of 1912. He had two bad illnesses while on his mission and was hospitalized both times. The first time was with pneumonia and the second time was for typhoid fever. He had been released to go home, he didn't feel well but, of course was anxious to get home to rest. He went to the
train depot to buy his ticket and the ticket agent noticed that he was sick and asked him to get a doctor's statement that his illness was not contagious. He went to the hospital for an examination.
The doctor found him to have a very high fever and put him to bed immediately. His sickness was diagnosed as typhoid fever and a very bad case. In fact, the doctor told the nurse that this Elder would not make it until morning. There was another boy in the same room with the same disease who seemed to be on the road to recovery. However, this boy died during the night and Edwin was on the improvement. The doctor said if the boy who died had as clean a body as Edwin there would have been no doubt about his recovery. Edwin was only home a short time when his father passed away.
Henry and Ethel, his two older siblings, were married, so it fell to Edwin to be the man of the home. His mother often remarked how well he did and how grateful she was for his faith and his clean habits to set the right example to all his younger brothers and sisters. At this time, Edwin was given responsibilities in the ward—in MIA, Sunday School and in Priesthood positions. In 1914, a new bishopric was installed in the Dingle Ward with Warren J. Sirrine, bishop; Edwin C. Cook, first counselor and Edward Smedley, second counselor. All three of these brethren were returned missionaries. At that time they were said to be the youngest bishopric in the Church. Edwin and his fiancee, Mary Elizabeth Oakey, were planning to be married. However, Mary, who was teaching school, wanted to go to college for a year to obtain a Teacher's Life Certificate. But Edwin, now being in the bishopric was advised to get married. Plans were changed and Edwin Cottrell Cook and Mary Elizabeth Oakey were married, 22 September 1915, in the Salt Lake Temple. They were driven to Salt Lake by Woodruff Clark, brother-in-law of Edwin's. Edwin's mother and Mary's oldest sister, Maida, accompanied them. The trip was made in a hurry as Edwin had crops to harvest. Two weeks later, the crops in, Ed and Mary took time for a honeymoon to October General Conference in Salt Lake. There were plenty of things to do and see along with Conference—the Utah State Fair, movies and plays, Salt Air and historic spots—which made a very enjoyable ten days. Ed and Mary had a wonderful and happy life together. Mary Ellen, their first baby was born, 17 August 1916, after much anticipation; but the Lord saw fit to call her home. She died at birth. However, they were blessed with five other lovely children—Ross H. born, 26 October 1918; twin girls, Lily and Lena, born, 8 April 1920; Edwin Oakey, born, 4 September 1924, and Marie, born, 30 October l928. Edwin loved his children very much. He was kind to them and wanted the very best for them. He was twice a bishop. After serving a couple of years as counselor to Warren Sirrine, he was called to serve the Dingle Ward as their Bishop. Bishop Sirrine had decided to continue his schooling at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Edwin
served as Bishop of the Dingle Ward for three years when he felt he needed to establish himself and family more securely. In order to do so, it would be necessary for him to move. He consulted the church authorities about this and was advised to make the move, which he did. Edwin moved with his family to Leslie, Idaho in the Lost River country. This was in August 1919. Edwin and his brother, Sterling, went in as partners on a 120 acre farm. The house was large enough so apartments were arranged for the two families. Ross was the only child then, Sterling and Nellie had been married only a short time. All went well the first year, then most ofthe water rights were taken from this area, so it was nip and tuck to make a meager living. Sterling and Nell decided to move out. Edwin turned one half of the farm, along with the big house, back to the owner and moved to a small house on the part he was keeping. He worked very hard milking cows and raising swine and turkeys. He established a market for turkeys in Pocatello and Blackfoot. For a number of years, turkey raising became an industry for all of Leslie. Edwin was stricken with rheumatic fever and damaged his heart, and left him in poor health.This time, the family moved to Nampa, Idaho in Boise Valley. For a while Edwin felt better and things were going fine. Then pneumonia twice in the same year really left him in worse health. He was indeed loved by all. The whole valley knew him. He passed away, 14 September 1932. This history was written by his wife, Mary, 23 June 1969.
Each of Edwin's children have fond memories of him and the two that have passed on, Ross and Lena, spoke similar words to those by Lily, Ed and Marie. All three of them agree that he possessed the following qualities: He was of a slight build, five foot ten inches tall with a 28 inch waist and a shoe size 6 V2; fine brown hair and hazel eyes. He was mild mannered, patient, hard working, ambitious and very appreciative. He was loving, though not particularly romantic, friendly but also quiet. He loved music and saw that his family were taught to love music and education. All agreed that he was spiritual and had integrity. The girls, who are the best judge, thought him to be handsome. He enjoyed having his hair brushed and head scratched by any of his children who were willing.
His son, Ed, told of the time when his health prevented him from doing the hard work entailed with farming, so he began selling insurance, and became good at it. For the first time in a long time, he had money for a few of the extra's. Ed further tells of an experience with his dad in the early 30's when the Great Depression hit. "Most farmers had flocks of chickens. Dad learned to tell if the hens were laying and he would often cull the chickens out for the farmers buying the ones that weren't laying and then take them in to Swift Packing and sell them. On one of those occasions, I went with him when he took them into Swifts. They gave him a check for them and dad gave it to me to put in the bank. I think I hadn't even started school. I asked him how and he said just go up to the teller window and hand it to them, they will know what to do with it. Scared as I was, I walked a couple of blocks to the bank. A lot of men were standing around outside and I became more scared but I went to the door and couldn't get in. I went to another door with the same result. With all the men watching and not knowing what I was doing, I didn't get any help so I went back to the car to wait for dad. I told him I couldn't get in. He said, that's o.k. I don't know what he did after that, he seemed to know the bank failure was just a part of the time."
Another version of the story on tithing that strengthened the family is Ed's remembrance: "Speaking of culling the chickens, I have another story to tell~Pay your tithing. It was just before Christmas and we were getting ready for church. I was ready and waiting, as I was before I started to school, and my few chores were all done. I heard Dad say to Mom: "Mary, we have just enough money to pay our tithing and nothing to buy the children Christmas-which I think was on the following Wednesday. Mom without hesitation or explaining or asking questions said: "Pay our tithing" and without any reluctance Dad took the tithing to church and paid it. We came home from church and I remember things were very quiet. We didn't do much, Dad and Mom didn't say much. Just as Dad was getting ready to go do the evening chores, milking and feeding the chickens, cows, pigs and horses, the phone rang. It was a man who wanted his chickens culled. He had a very large flock and wanted Dad to do it the next day. As it turned out, the amount Dad made was more than tithing and Christmas needs". One story our brother, Ed, tells is about Bob: "Dad took Ross on a Father and Sons outing. I was deemed too little to go. They
went to Garden Valley on an overnight camp-out with the ward. When they came home, they brought with them a puppy, a kind of cattle dog but not a purebred. We named him, Bob, because he had no tail. Dad trained him well. When he would go out to milk, Bob would have the cows waiting at the barn door. Our fences were poor and quite often the cows would break out or they would be allowed to forage in the fields after the harvest. Dad would call Bob loud enough for the cows to hear and the cows would start to come long before the dog got to them. After dad died, it was my responsibility for the chores and Bob was always there. In fact, for four or five years after dad died, the cows still responded out of habit when I would say, "Here Bob." Bob finally died of a gun shot would that we supposed was from a jealous neighbor.
Ed continues his recollection of his father's death: "We were called home from school and told our daddy was dying. Father took each one of us in his arms and kissed us goodbye. He told us to stay close to the church, obey our mother and take care of her. He died in Mother's arms. Our dog, Bob, for a long time, would sit outside the bedroom window and looking at the heavens would howl in
grief."
The following are excerpts from Edwin C. Cook's missionary journal of 1910, in the bearing of his personal testimony. " I know that Jesus Christ is the son ofthe living God, that He came into the world to offer Himself a sacrifice for sin, that He taught the gospel of salvation and that through the shedding of His blood, He became the Redeemer of Men. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of the Living God, raised up in this, The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times, to establish in the world the true church of Christ. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the only true church in all the world. This knowledge has come to me by the power of the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which the Savior gave to us prior to his crucifixion declaring that He would send a Comforter to His disciples after He had left them. That they, doing the will of the Father, will know of the doctrine, whether it be of God or man. Therefore it is with a great deal of satisfaction that as in the past borne testimony, we DO know that Jesus Christ is the Savior and still bear testimony of this great truth and will in the future bear testimony in spite of ridicule thereof unto the children of men."
A brief life sketch of Edwin Cottrell Cook is given
by his wife, Mary Elizabeth, as follows:
Edwin Cottrell Cook was the son of George Henry Cook (called Hank) and Elizabeth Hannah Nate Cook (called by everyone as Aunt Lill). The Cottrell in Edwin's name was after his grandmother's surname—Mary Ann Cottrell Nate. Edwin was the third child in a family often children. He was born December 19,1887, in Dingle, Bear Lake County, Idaho. He was a very energetic and industrious boy, well liked by everyone and very popular among the young people, both boys and girls. He attended elementary schools in Dingle and Fielding Academy High School in Paris, Idaho. Edwin filled a very successful mission in the North Western States, 8 December 1909, to the spring of 1912. He had two bad illnesses while on his mission and was hospitalized both times. The first time was with pneumonia and the second time was for typhoid fever. He had been released to go home, he didn't feel well but, of course was anxious to get home to rest. He went to the
train depot to buy his ticket and the ticket agent noticed that he was sick and asked him to get a doctor's statement that his illness was not contagious. He went to the hospital for an examination.
The doctor found him to have a very high fever and put him to bed immediately. His sickness was diagnosed as typhoid fever and a very bad case. In fact, the doctor told the nurse that this Elder would not make it until morning. There was another boy in the same room with the same disease who seemed to be on the road to recovery. However, this boy died during the night and Edwin was on the improvement. The doctor said if the boy who died had as clean a body as Edwin there would have been no doubt about his recovery. Edwin was only home a short time when his father passed away.
Henry and Ethel, his two older siblings, were married, so it fell to Edwin to be the man of the home. His mother often remarked how well he did and how grateful she was for his faith and his clean habits to set the right example to all his younger brothers and sisters. At this time, Edwin was given responsibilities in the ward—in MIA, Sunday School and in Priesthood positions. In 1914, a new bishopric was installed in the Dingle Ward with Warren J. Sirrine, bishop; Edwin C. Cook, first counselor and Edward Smedley, second counselor. All three of these brethren were returned missionaries. At that time they were said to be the youngest bishopric in the Church. Edwin and his fiancee, Mary Elizabeth Oakey, were planning to be married. However, Mary, who was teaching school, wanted to go to college for a year to obtain a Teacher's Life Certificate. But Edwin, now being in the bishopric was advised to get married. Plans were changed and Edwin Cottrell Cook and Mary Elizabeth Oakey were married, 22 September 1915, in the Salt Lake Temple. They were driven to Salt Lake by Woodruff Clark, brother-in-law of Edwin's. Edwin's mother and Mary's oldest sister, Maida, accompanied them. The trip was made in a hurry as Edwin had crops to harvest. Two weeks later, the crops in, Ed and Mary took time for a honeymoon to October General Conference in Salt Lake. There were plenty of things to do and see along with Conference—the Utah State Fair, movies and plays, Salt Air and historic spots—which made a very enjoyable ten days. Ed and Mary had a wonderful and happy life together. Mary Ellen, their first baby was born, 17 August 1916, after much anticipation; but the Lord saw fit to call her home. She died at birth. However, they were blessed with five other lovely children—Ross H. born, 26 October 1918; twin girls, Lily and Lena, born, 8 April 1920; Edwin Oakey, born, 4 September 1924, and Marie, born, 30 October l928. Edwin loved his children very much. He was kind to them and wanted the very best for them. He was twice a bishop. After serving a couple of years as counselor to Warren Sirrine, he was called to serve the Dingle Ward as their Bishop. Bishop Sirrine had decided to continue his schooling at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Edwin
served as Bishop of the Dingle Ward for three years when he felt he needed to establish himself and family more securely. In order to do so, it would be necessary for him to move. He consulted the church authorities about this and was advised to make the move, which he did. Edwin moved with his family to Leslie, Idaho in the Lost River country. This was in August 1919. Edwin and his brother, Sterling, went in as partners on a 120 acre farm. The house was large enough so apartments were arranged for the two families. Ross was the only child then, Sterling and Nellie had been married only a short time. All went well the first year, then most ofthe water rights were taken from this area, so it was nip and tuck to make a meager living. Sterling and Nell decided to move out. Edwin turned one half of the farm, along with the big house, back to the owner and moved to a small house on the part he was keeping. He worked very hard milking cows and raising swine and turkeys. He established a market for turkeys in Pocatello and Blackfoot. For a number of years, turkey raising became an industry for all of Leslie. Edwin was stricken with rheumatic fever and damaged his heart, and left him in poor health.This time, the family moved to Nampa, Idaho in Boise Valley. For a while Edwin felt better and things were going fine. Then pneumonia twice in the same year really left him in worse health. He was indeed loved by all. The whole valley knew him. He passed away, 14 September 1932. This history was written by his wife, Mary, 23 June 1969.
Each of Edwin's children have fond memories of him and the two that have passed on, Ross and Lena, spoke similar words to those by Lily, Ed and Marie. All three of them agree that he possessed the following qualities: He was of a slight build, five foot ten inches tall with a 28 inch waist and a shoe size 6 V2; fine brown hair and hazel eyes. He was mild mannered, patient, hard working, ambitious and very appreciative. He was loving, though not particularly romantic, friendly but also quiet. He loved music and saw that his family were taught to love music and education. All agreed that he was spiritual and had integrity. The girls, who are the best judge, thought him to be handsome. He enjoyed having his hair brushed and head scratched by any of his children who were willing.
His son, Ed, told of the time when his health prevented him from doing the hard work entailed with farming, so he began selling insurance, and became good at it. For the first time in a long time, he had money for a few of the extra's. Ed further tells of an experience with his dad in the early 30's when the Great Depression hit. "Most farmers had flocks of chickens. Dad learned to tell if the hens were laying and he would often cull the chickens out for the farmers buying the ones that weren't laying and then take them in to Swift Packing and sell them. On one of those occasions, I went with him when he took them into Swifts. They gave him a check for them and dad gave it to me to put in the bank. I think I hadn't even started school. I asked him how and he said just go up to the teller window and hand it to them, they will know what to do with it. Scared as I was, I walked a couple of blocks to the bank. A lot of men were standing around outside and I became more scared but I went to the door and couldn't get in. I went to another door with the same result. With all the men watching and not knowing what I was doing, I didn't get any help so I went back to the car to wait for dad. I told him I couldn't get in. He said, that's o.k. I don't know what he did after that, he seemed to know the bank failure was just a part of the time."
Another version of the story on tithing that strengthened the family is Ed's remembrance: "Speaking of culling the chickens, I have another story to tell~Pay your tithing. It was just before Christmas and we were getting ready for church. I was ready and waiting, as I was before I started to school, and my few chores were all done. I heard Dad say to Mom: "Mary, we have just enough money to pay our tithing and nothing to buy the children Christmas-which I think was on the following Wednesday. Mom without hesitation or explaining or asking questions said: "Pay our tithing" and without any reluctance Dad took the tithing to church and paid it. We came home from church and I remember things were very quiet. We didn't do much, Dad and Mom didn't say much. Just as Dad was getting ready to go do the evening chores, milking and feeding the chickens, cows, pigs and horses, the phone rang. It was a man who wanted his chickens culled. He had a very large flock and wanted Dad to do it the next day. As it turned out, the amount Dad made was more than tithing and Christmas needs". One story our brother, Ed, tells is about Bob: "Dad took Ross on a Father and Sons outing. I was deemed too little to go. They
went to Garden Valley on an overnight camp-out with the ward. When they came home, they brought with them a puppy, a kind of cattle dog but not a purebred. We named him, Bob, because he had no tail. Dad trained him well. When he would go out to milk, Bob would have the cows waiting at the barn door. Our fences were poor and quite often the cows would break out or they would be allowed to forage in the fields after the harvest. Dad would call Bob loud enough for the cows to hear and the cows would start to come long before the dog got to them. After dad died, it was my responsibility for the chores and Bob was always there. In fact, for four or five years after dad died, the cows still responded out of habit when I would say, "Here Bob." Bob finally died of a gun shot would that we supposed was from a jealous neighbor.
Ed continues his recollection of his father's death: "We were called home from school and told our daddy was dying. Father took each one of us in his arms and kissed us goodbye. He told us to stay close to the church, obey our mother and take care of her. He died in Mother's arms. Our dog, Bob, for a long time, would sit outside the bedroom window and looking at the heavens would howl in
grief."
The following are excerpts from Edwin C. Cook's missionary journal of 1910, in the bearing of his personal testimony. " I know that Jesus Christ is the son ofthe living God, that He came into the world to offer Himself a sacrifice for sin, that He taught the gospel of salvation and that through the shedding of His blood, He became the Redeemer of Men. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of the Living God, raised up in this, The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times, to establish in the world the true church of Christ. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the only true church in all the world. This knowledge has come to me by the power of the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which the Savior gave to us prior to his crucifixion declaring that He would send a Comforter to His disciples after He had left them. That they, doing the will of the Father, will know of the doctrine, whether it be of God or man. Therefore it is with a great deal of satisfaction that as in the past borne testimony, we DO know that Jesus Christ is the Savior and still bear testimony of this great truth and will in the future bear testimony in spite of ridicule thereof unto the children of men."
by his wife, Mary Elizabeth, as follows:
Edwin Cottrell Cook was the son of George Henry Cook (called Hank) and Elizabeth Hannah Nate Cook (called by everyone as Aunt Lill). The Cottrell in Edwin's name was after his grandmother's surname—Mary Ann Cottrell Nate. Edwin was the third child in a family often children. He was born December 19,1887, in Dingle, Bear Lake County, Idaho. He was a very energetic and industrious boy, well liked by everyone and very popular among the young people, both boys and girls. He attended elementary schools in Dingle and Fielding Academy High School in Paris, Idaho. Edwin filled a very successful mission in the North Western States, 8 December 1909, to the spring of 1912. He had two bad illnesses while on his mission and was hospitalized both times. The first time was with pneumonia and the second time was for typhoid fever. He had been released to go home, he didn't feel well but, of course was anxious to get home to rest. He went to the
train depot to buy his ticket and the ticket agent noticed that he was sick and asked him to get a doctor's statement that his illness was not contagious. He went to the hospital for an examination.
The doctor found him to have a very high fever and put him to bed immediately. His sickness was diagnosed as typhoid fever and a very bad case. In fact, the doctor told the nurse that this Elder would not make it until morning. There was another boy in the same room with the same disease who seemed to be on the road to recovery. However, this boy died during the night and Edwin was on the improvement. The doctor said if the boy who died had as clean a body as Edwin there would have been no doubt about his recovery. Edwin was only home a short time when his father passed away.
Henry and Ethel, his two older siblings, were married, so it fell to Edwin to be the man of the home. His mother often remarked how well he did and how grateful she was for his faith and his clean habits to set the right example to all his younger brothers and sisters. At this time, Edwin was given responsibilities in the ward—in MIA, Sunday School and in Priesthood positions. In 1914, a new bishopric was installed in the Dingle Ward with Warren J. Sirrine, bishop; Edwin C. Cook, first counselor and Edward Smedley, second counselor. All three of these brethren were returned missionaries. At that time they were said to be the youngest bishopric in the Church. Edwin and his fiancee, Mary Elizabeth Oakey, were planning to be married. However, Mary, who was teaching school, wanted to go to college for a year to obtain a Teacher's Life Certificate. But Edwin, now being in the bishopric was advised to get married. Plans were changed and Edwin Cottrell Cook and Mary Elizabeth Oakey were married, 22 September 1915, in the Salt Lake Temple. They were driven to Salt Lake by Woodruff Clark, brother-in-law of Edwin's. Edwin's mother and Mary's oldest sister, Maida, accompanied them. The trip was made in a hurry as Edwin had crops to harvest. Two weeks later, the crops in, Ed and Mary took time for a honeymoon to October General Conference in Salt Lake. There were plenty of things to do and see along with Conference—the Utah State Fair, movies and plays, Salt Air and historic spots—which made a very enjoyable ten days. Ed and Mary had a wonderful and happy life together. Mary Ellen, their first baby was born, 17 August 1916, after much anticipation; but the Lord saw fit to call her home. She died at birth. However, they were blessed with five other lovely children—Ross H. born, 26 October 1918; twin girls, Lily and Lena, born, 8 April 1920; Edwin Oakey, born, 4 September 1924, and Marie, born, 30 October l928. Edwin loved his children very much. He was kind to them and wanted the very best for them. He was twice a bishop. After serving a couple of years as counselor to Warren Sirrine, he was called to serve the Dingle Ward as their Bishop. Bishop Sirrine had decided to continue his schooling at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Edwin
served as Bishop of the Dingle Ward for three years when he felt he needed to establish himself and family more securely. In order to do so, it would be necessary for him to move. He consulted the church authorities about this and was advised to make the move, which he did. Edwin moved with his family to Leslie, Idaho in the Lost River country. This was in August 1919. Edwin and his brother, Sterling, went in as partners on a 120 acre farm. The house was large enough so apartments were arranged for the two families. Ross was the only child then, Sterling and Nellie had been married only a short time. All went well the first year, then most ofthe water rights were taken from this area, so it was nip and tuck to make a meager living. Sterling and Nell decided to move out. Edwin turned one half of the farm, along with the big house, back to the owner and moved to a small house on the part he was keeping. He worked very hard milking cows and raising swine and turkeys. He established a market for turkeys in Pocatello and Blackfoot. For a number of years, turkey raising became an industry for all of Leslie. Edwin was stricken with rheumatic fever and damaged his heart, and left him in poor health.This time, the family moved to Nampa, Idaho in Boise Valley. For a while Edwin felt better and things were going fine. Then pneumonia twice in the same year really left him in worse health. He was indeed loved by all. The whole valley knew him. He passed away, 14 September 1932. This history was written by his wife, Mary, 23 June 1969.
Each of Edwin's children have fond memories of him and the two that have passed on, Ross and Lena, spoke similar words to those by Lily, Ed and Marie. All three of them agree that he possessed the following qualities: He was of a slight build, five foot ten inches tall with a 28 inch waist and a shoe size 6 V2; fine brown hair and hazel eyes. He was mild mannered, patient, hard working, ambitious and very appreciative. He was loving, though not particularly romantic, friendly but also quiet. He loved music and saw that his family were taught to love music and education. All agreed that he was spiritual and had integrity. The girls, who are the best judge, thought him to be handsome. He enjoyed having his hair brushed and head scratched by any of his children who were willing.
His son, Ed, told of the time when his health prevented him from doing the hard work entailed with farming, so he began selling insurance, and became good at it. For the first time in a long time, he had money for a few of the extra's. Ed further tells of an experience with his dad in the early 30's when the Great Depression hit. "Most farmers had flocks of chickens. Dad learned to tell if the hens were laying and he would often cull the chickens out for the farmers buying the ones that weren't laying and then take them in to Swift Packing and sell them. On one of those occasions, I went with him when he took them into Swifts. They gave him a check for them and dad gave it to me to put in the bank. I think I hadn't even started school. I asked him how and he said just go up to the teller window and hand it to them, they will know what to do with it. Scared as I was, I walked a couple of blocks to the bank. A lot of men were standing around outside and I became more scared but I went to the door and couldn't get in. I went to another door with the same result. With all the men watching and not knowing what I was doing, I didn't get any help so I went back to the car to wait for dad. I told him I couldn't get in. He said, that's o.k. I don't know what he did after that, he seemed to know the bank failure was just a part of the time."
Another version of the story on tithing that strengthened the family is Ed's remembrance: "Speaking of culling the chickens, I have another story to tell~Pay your tithing. It was just before Christmas and we were getting ready for church. I was ready and waiting, as I was before I started to school, and my few chores were all done. I heard Dad say to Mom: "Mary, we have just enough money to pay our tithing and nothing to buy the children Christmas-which I think was on the following Wednesday. Mom without hesitation or explaining or asking questions said: "Pay our tithing" and without any reluctance Dad took the tithing to church and paid it. We came home from church and I remember things were very quiet. We didn't do much, Dad and Mom didn't say much. Just as Dad was getting ready to go do the evening chores, milking and feeding the chickens, cows, pigs and horses, the phone rang. It was a man who wanted his chickens culled. He had a very large flock and wanted Dad to do it the next day. As it turned out, the amount Dad made was more than tithing and Christmas needs". One story our brother, Ed, tells is about Bob: "Dad took Ross on a Father and Sons outing. I was deemed too little to go. They
went to Garden Valley on an overnight camp-out with the ward. When they came home, they brought with them a puppy, a kind of cattle dog but not a purebred. We named him, Bob, because he had no tail. Dad trained him well. When he would go out to milk, Bob would have the cows waiting at the barn door. Our fences were poor and quite often the cows would break out or they would be allowed to forage in the fields after the harvest. Dad would call Bob loud enough for the cows to hear and the cows would start to come long before the dog got to them. After dad died, it was my responsibility for the chores and Bob was always there. In fact, for four or five years after dad died, the cows still responded out of habit when I would say, "Here Bob." Bob finally died of a gun shot would that we supposed was from a jealous neighbor.
Ed continues his recollection of his father's death: "We were called home from school and told our daddy was dying. Father took each one of us in his arms and kissed us goodbye. He told us to stay close to the church, obey our mother and take care of her. He died in Mother's arms. Our dog, Bob, for a long time, would sit outside the bedroom window and looking at the heavens would howl in
grief."
The following are excerpts from Edwin C. Cook's missionary journal of 1910, in the bearing of his personal testimony. " I know that Jesus Christ is the son ofthe living God, that He came into the world to offer Himself a sacrifice for sin, that He taught the gospel of salvation and that through the shedding of His blood, He became the Redeemer of Men. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of the Living God, raised up in this, The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times, to establish in the world the true church of Christ. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the only true church in all the world. This knowledge has come to me by the power of the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which the Savior gave to us prior to his crucifixion declaring that He would send a Comforter to His disciples after He had left them. That they, doing the will of the Father, will know of the doctrine, whether it be of God or man. Therefore it is with a great deal of satisfaction that as in the past borne testimony, we DO know that Jesus Christ is the Savior and still bear testimony of this great truth and will in the future bear testimony in spite of ridicule thereof unto the children of men."
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