Brent M. Cook

Brent M. Cook, age 76, of LaPorte, IN passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

Brent was born on January 7, 1950 in Rochester, IN to the late Elmer and Ester Cook. One of five, Brent grew up on his family’s farm where they raised crops, pigs, and eventually melons. Brent attended schools in New Carlisle where he was involved in the Future Farmers of America. Brent was also a state recognized wrestler during his high school career.

Brent served his country as a Marine where he was the Chief Warehouse Manager for the company’s radar systems. He ascended the ranks to Corporal until his discharge in 1975. Brent worked at Roll Coater as a Crane Operator for years, even through the company’s name change to Pre-Coat Metals. He spent 24 years with the company until his well-earned retirement.

Brent loved to fish and camp and enjoyed going on vacations with family and friends. When Brent ended his service with the Marines, he took off with his backpack and went wherever the railways took him. This sparked Brent’s love for Minnesota and he often planned family vacations there.

Brent was a true Marine: gruff and stubborn but had a huge heart. He enjoyed making other people laugh and formed a special bond with his grandson: Oaklen. Brent’s love for his family, his hardworking nature, and his love of the open road will be remembered by all who were lucky to know him. He will be deeply missed.

Brent is survived by his children: Tiffany (Jessi) Maule and Brent (Nastasha) Cook; grandchildren: Jessi and Oaklen Maule; grandpup: Nena; siblings: Sandra Cook, Elaine (John) Cline, and Keith (Penny) Cook; former spouse and lifelong friend: Judy Cook; and dear friends: Bob and Kathy Hensel and Dave Hahn.

Brent is preceded in death by his parents: Elmer and Esther; son: Gary Cook; brother: Richard Cook; sister-in-law: Susie Cook; and best friend: Mike Hahn.

Family and friends may gather for a Celebration of Brent’s Life at Hillside Missionary Church (21567 W Ireland Rd, South Bend, IN 46614) on Saturday, April 11,2026 at 2:00 P.M. Brent will be laid to rest in Knox, IN at a later date.