Michael Paul Cook, 58, of Bridgeport, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July14, 2019, at his home. He was born on September 16, 1960, in Clarksburg to the late Donald Cook of Stonewood and Patricia Mace Cook of Bridgeport.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa West Cook, whom he married on August 21, 1982. The two met and began dating in Jr. High School in 1974.

Also surviving are his son, Josh Cook and his fiancé Mallory of Bridgeport, and his daughter Molly Cook of Bridgeport; brothers Robert Cook and wife Jinah of Scott Depot, and David Cook and his partner Kerrie of Bridgeport; he also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

Mike was a graduate of Bridgeport High School, Class of 1979. He received a full scholarship to Salem College for football but decided to go to Marshall where he received a bachelor’s degree in business management. He worked at Kanawha Scales and Systems for the past 28 years.

If you knew Mike, you knew he loved sports. He coached football and baseball for many years. To many he was known as “Coach.” He lived for the Challenger League and umpiring, which he had done for 35 years. He umpired in many of the Junior League Regional games and World Series, including Georgia 2005, Michigan 2008, and Florida 2010. His biggest achievement was umpiring at the 2016 Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. He loved his brothers on the field and “Ole Iron Britches”, Donna Haines.

Mike also loved his corvette and was a very proud member of the North Central Corvette Club. He enjoyed driving around Maple Lake where he grew up and joining the club on their yearly outings.

His kids meant the world to him. He loved watching Josh play baseball and football, following in his Indian footsteps. Mike and Molly enjoyed theatre and watching NASCAR races on Sundays. He enjoyed going with the family to sporting events, Sunday brunches, and the yearly vacation to Myrtle Beach, which at 11 o’clock Mike’s morning Bloody Mary was waiting. He was always up for good food, good drinks, and a good time.

In lieu of flowers, Bridgeport Challenger League, 39 Windsor Drive Bridgeport, WV 26330; or BHS Alumni and Friends PO Box 201 Bridgeport, WV 26330.

Family and friends will be received at Burnside Funeral Home, 607 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport on Wednesday, July 17, 2019 from 3-8 pm. Private services will be held for the family.
 

Read more about Mike Cook, including his accomplished dream of officiating a Little League World Championship HERE.