Maurice Harold Cook II, 71, a lifelong resident of New Castle, went to be with the Lord on Friday afternoon November 11, 2022. He passed away peacefully with his sisters at his side.
Maurice was born in New Castle, Indiana on September 10, 1951 and was a 1970 graduate of Chrysler High School. Maurice was an entrepreneur at heart and had several business ventures throughout his life. He received a plumbing license, auctioneer license and real estate license. His primary business was plumbing. He was owner/operator of Cook’s Plumbing and grew his business until he was able to buy into the Roto Rooter franchise which he owned in Henry, Delaware, Madison, Rush and Wayne counties. He was a supporter of area youth programs and provided a meeting place and snacks for Young Life Ministries Christian Organization in Henry County. He also “filled in” for Santa Claus at several New Castle businesses and organizations. Maurice loved animals and was a proud supporter of Henry County Humane Society. Maurice was recognized for his civic contributions and service to the community on December 10, 2004 by Governor Joseph Kernan when he was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash. In his leisure, Maurice enjoyed fishing, especially salmon fishing trips and spending time on the Ohio River with his family.
Survivors include his daughter, Misti (Joel) Schielie; 2 grandchildren, Michael and Madison Schielie; 4 siblings, Jo Ann Boiles and Bonnie (Warren) Catron both of New Castle, Mary Stoots of Bowling Green, KY and Floyd (Gwen) Cook of Cookeville, TN; nephew, Warren (Lora) Catron Jr. of Brownsburg; 2 nieces, Tina Catron (Kenny) Van Matre of New Castle and Letreze Stoots of Bowling Green, KY.
Maurice’s family would like to extend special recognition to his property manager and true friend, Brian Duvall and Jodi Scott, his dedicated and loving caregiver, Thank You!
Maurice was preceded in death by his wife of 28 years, Mary Lou (Boggs) Cook on December 8, 2011; father, Maurice H. Cook; mother, Paulene (Jones) Cook-Petty; and his grandparents.
Cremation has been entrusted to Marshall & Erlewein Funeral Home, Lewisville Chapel. A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family followed by burial with his mom at Brick Cemetery in Hagerstown.
In memory of Maurice, friends and family are encouraged to donate to Henry County Animal Shelter- 11 Midway Drive/ New Castle, IN 47362.