Jack J. Cook

On May 14, 2026, Jack J. Cook passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He lived a full and rewarding life defined by hard work, devotion to family, lasting friendships, and a career he genuinely loved. Jack often told his wife, Jeri, that he would not change a thing about the life they built together. Though Alzheimer’s gradually took much from him, it never diminished the impact he had on those who knew and loved him.

Jack was born on May 16, 1942, to Jack and Thelma Cook in Mesa, Arizona. He was raised in Avenal, California, and attended Bakersfield Junior College before beginning his career in the petroleum industry. Determined to further his education while building his career, he later attended California State University, Long Beach, graduating summa cum laude. The petroleum industry shaped a career that spanned decades and provided some of his greatest professional accomplishments and personal satisfaction.

Jack married the love of his life, Jeri, in 1967. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and shared adventures. The family later made their home in Ventura, California, where Jack and Jeri raised their children and created many of their family’s happiest memories. Throughout his career as a petroleum engineer, Jack earned the respect of colleagues across the industry and eventually founded Jack J. Cook, Petroleum Consultant, one of his proudest accomplishments. He worked hard, loved what he did, and took great pride in being a part of the petroleum industry. In 1999, Jack moved his business to Bakersfield, where he and Jeri and Jeri continued to build lasting friendships and enjoy the next chapter of their lives. In 2015, they retired to Arizona to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Beyond his career, Jack loved spending time with family and friends. He was an avid golfer and longtime member of Seven Oaks Country Club, where he enjoyed the camaraderie, competition, and friendships he built over the years. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, motorcycling, biking, poker and playing bridge. Whether building his career, competing on the golf course, or pursuing one of his many interests, Jack brought a competitive spirit to everything he did.

Jack was a man of strong convictions, a tireless work ethic, and deep devotion to his family. He believed in doing things right, keeping his word, and taking care of the people he loved. He took tremendous pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to share their successes with others. He was protective, strong-willed, generous, and fiercely loyal to those fortunate enough to be part of his life.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Jeri; his son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Lara Cook; his daughter, Alicia Oakes; and his adored grandchildren, Genevieve, Grayson, Quinlan, and Griffin, who brought him endless pride and joy and had him wrapped around their fingers from the very beginning. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Sandra and Steve Escobar, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, caregivers, Hospice of the Valley, Friendship Village, and the many friends who supported Jack and his family throughout his illness.

A memorial service celebrating Jack's life will be held on June 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Bakersfield, 1705 17th Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301. Family and friends are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jack’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org. The family hopes that through continued research and support, one day other families will be spared the challenges of this disease.