Elaine Janet Cook

Elaine Janet Basney Cook, age 73 of Topeka, passed away Monday, March 9, 2015 in Topeka. Elaine was a dedicated teacher, mother and grandmother. She was intelligent, quick to laugh and humble. Elaine was born in Hartford, Connecticut on January 31st of 1942 to Frank and “Sis” Basney. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Connecticut and then went on to earn a Master’s degree from the University of Southern Connecticut State Teachers College.

Elaine traveled the world while stationed at an oil company school in Libya, Africa. She enjoyed working with her elementary students and was well loved by them. While teaching in Libya she met Donovan Cook, whom she married in 1972. They lived and taught in Africa for over a decade before they moved back to the states in the early 80s. They had two children, Geoff and Jennifer Cook. Elaine became a stay-at-home mother and was the best homework coach a child could ask for. In 1990 a case of rheumatoid arthritis returned and she battled against its effects for the rest of her life. She had a strong will to be independent and was able to remain active until the end of her life. She loved to observe nature, watch shows on KTWU, attend library programs and draw cartoon birds on letters to her children. She also loved spending time with her four grandchildren: Rainy, Fox, Max and Elliott. Elaine had a beautiful, sensitive soul. Her kindness, generosity and fighting spirit will be remembered and deeply missed.

Funeral services will be Saturday, March 14, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the Countryside United Methodist Church. She will lie in state Friday from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Davidson Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour before services from 10:00 – service time at the church. Interment will be at Rochester Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Countryside United Methodist Church or KTWU and sent in care of the Davidson Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at davidsonfuneral.com.