The stars were shining bright on the night that Thomas Melbourne Cook left us, but they will never shine as brightly as that special twinkle in his eyes. He was quick with a smile and a funny little laugh, a keen intellect, witty sense of humor, and gentlemanly manner that endeared him to the many people who called him Dad, grandpa, great grandpa, uncle, family, and friend. He was loved by many and he will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched.

Thomas was born in Miami, Florida, but lived in many places in his 92 years. He married his high-school sweetheart, Arlene Mae Huss on December 25, 1950, while serving in the United States Air Force. He and Arlene had four children over the years and many adventures moving around the country, while working as a scientist, earning degrees, and eventually becoming a professor of microbiology at the University of Maryland before retiring and moving to Bloomington, Indiana.

He was a scholar and lover of history, continuing to read and learn throughout his life. He was also a musician, playing in numerous bands and taking music lessons on his clarinet and saxophone until the time of his passing. He often claimed he would have become a musician had his sweetheart Arlene not declared that she would never marry a musician. That story was one of his favorites to tell, and family and friends would smile as he shared this story, which usually led to an accounting of his time in the Air Force and beyond, along with assorted funny tales. Many of these stories have been documented in a wonderful book he wrote about his family history several years ago.

He was an excellent storyteller, which proved helpful in his career. He loved teaching and was held in high regard by his students, faculty and staff, not only for his abilities in the classroom but for treating people fairly regardless of rank or degree. He was humble about his abilities and was astounded when he received a standing ovation after one of his lectures, though it was not surprising to anyone who knew him.

Thomas felt strongly about always doing the right thing. He exhibited this in many ways, including speaking out about societal inequities and helping those in need, particularly children. While he sometimes grumbled about politics and moronic behavior, he was quick to step up where he saw a need. He and Arlene believed in the value of organizations such as Boy Scouts and the Boys & Girls Club, Meals on Wheels, and public education, often volunteering or making contributions to various programs.

Above all, he was a family man. He and Arlene understood the value of hard work, education, and duty to others, setting high expectations for themselves and their children. There was nothing he would not do to help his family, which extended beyond just those to whom he was related. He was the kind of man who offered his support in many ways, not just financially, but with wisdom, advice, or a kind word depending on the need.

When his family and friends from across the years and around the world remember him, they will no doubt picture him doing the things he loved at various points in his life, whether it was gardening, backpacking and hiking, reading, making beer, making music, traveling, dancing, drinking wine, spending time with family, or sharing a small piece of chocolate and a brandy in the evenings over some great stories. He endeared himself to all who knew him, and he made this world a better place. He will be forever missed.

Thomas is survived by his son, Lee M. Cook [Lauren McCallum], daughter, Deborah Cook Otteson [Steve], daughter Liz Cook Irwin, grandchildren Thomas Otteson, Clara Otteson Halt, Colin McCallum-Cook, Ian McCallum-Cook, Max Irwin, Jackson Irwin, Willow Irwin, and Zachary Irwin, and 4 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene and one son, John.

A celebration of life will take place in the spring to honor Thomas. He did not want a funeral. He preferred the idea of an elegant affair with laughter, champagne, and a jazz band complete with family and friends. Details will be forthcoming. The family is arranging a special fund for the Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington, Indiana, to commemorate his life. Anyone wishing to honor his memory could consider making a gift at bgcbloomington.org or P.O. Box 1716 Bloomington, IN 47402.