LYELL P. COOK
CLASS OF 1972

Lyell P. Cook, "Cookie", graduated from Rice Avenue Union High School in 1972. Upon graduation Lyell began his working career at the family lumber business, J W Cook Lumber Company, a 100 plus year old business.

In 1975 Lyell "retired" from the family business and embarked on a career path that began with enrollment at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. Lyell graduated with honors in 1978 and served as class Vice-President.

Upon returning to the Girard area as a licensed funeral director, Lyell operated as supervisor of Burton Funeral Home in Girard for fifteen years. Lyell continued his professional education by graduating from The Pennsylvania Coroners Academy preparing him for his position as the Assistant County Coroner under Merle Wood for 20 years. He has served as Erie County Coroner from 1999 to the present. Lyell also served as past President of Pennsylvania State Coroners' Association.

Lyell has always found time to serve his community. He was past President of the Girard-Lake City Chamber, Board President of the Cemetery Association, the Grand Marshall of Dan Rice Days, and co-founder of The Mad Hatter Bed Race (which raised thousands of dollars to benefit Pleasant Ridge Manor). He is also a member of the Times Old Newsies and Erie Koinonia.