William Raymond Cook, 79, of Crawfordsville passed away Saturday, August 24, peacefully in his home.

During his 79 years on the planet, Billy, loved, supported and cared for at least five generations of people who loved him right back. He grew up working on a farm in the 1950s, took on the task of supporting his late wife parents and sister in the 1960s; raised his daughter in the 1970s; raised his son in the 1990s; and was the best paps ever to his granddaughter in the 2000s.

He was an extremely hard working man who started his career in the printing industry at RR Donnelley. In 1987, he accepted a position as a lithographic technician with Miller Printing. This led to opportunities to travel the world setting up printing presses, train crews who spoke a myriad f different languages, and amass enough stories to keep people of all ages laughing. He loved his family, his friends, rock and roll music, the Colts (sometimes), NASCAR, and beer…

He was born November 18, 1944 to Vivian (Morris) and Justus Cook. Following their divorce, he was raised by his mother, her family, and eventually his step-father William Rinehart. He played baseball, basketball, and graduated from New Ross High School.  On December 18, 1965 he married the love of his life, Janis (Johnson) who proceeded him in death. He is survived by his children, Stacie Cook and Logan Cook of Crawfordsville, one grandchild Justice Cook, and his brother Kent Rinehart. He is also survived by the friends, stories and adventures he accumulated over his 79 years.A celebration of his wonderful life is in the works. The family would like to thank the hospice team who assisted in his care.

The last verse from his favorite poem, "Invictus," succinctly summarized his character, which will be sorely missed: " I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."