Helen ‘Max’ Maxine Cook, 98, lifelong resident of the Holton area, passed away Thursday July 7, 2022 at the Midland Hospice Care in Topeka, Kansas. Born on February 10, 1924 in Holton, Kansas, she was one of 14 children born to Walter Franklin Kathrens and Helen Margaret Glenn. Shortly after graduating high school Max married Norman C. Cook and they enjoyed a 30 year life in the military and were married for 56 years. She was proud to have contributed to our nation’s efforts in WWII by working in the Bremerton, Washington shipyards.

Max and Norman adopted five children and she devoted her life to raising the family. She was praised by everyone who knew her for being the best ever baker and cook and her bread, pies, and cakes were always received with anticipation.

She is preceded in death by 12 siblings and son, Ryan Douglas Cook. She is survived by her children Ronald Lee Cook (Brenda) of Whiting, Kansas, Richard Bradley Cook (Lisa) of Seattle, Washington, Maria Rochelle Cook (Tom) of Lummi Island, Washington, Paula Renee Cook (John) of Anchorage, Alaska, and daughter-in-law Maryanne Cook of Rockledge, Florida. Additional survivors are her brother and sister Wallace (Wally) Wendell Kathrens of Holton, Kansas and Roberta (Kaye) McKeever of Hines, Oregon, and six grandchildren. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Sherri Moore who gave comfort to Mom with her compassionate care giving for 11 years.

Graveside Service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 14, 2022 at Larkinburg Cemetery. She will lie in state 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.