Jackie Lynn Cook

As the clouds suspended low and the skies wept, with her family surrounding her, Jackie Lynn Dieu Cook of Darby passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024 at Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.

Jackie was born on July 27, 1964 in Myrtle Point, Oregon to Gary and Patsy (Ludwig) Dieu. Welcoming her was older sister Debbie. Her younger siblings, Russell, Kathi and Jeff soon followed. Jackie was a quiet, observant child. Full of laughter, a caring heart and a mischievous mind. At the early age of 13, she was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. She remained high-spirited and didn’t let this discomforting disease discourage her from living an abundant life.

After graduating from Coquille High School in 1983, a natural nurturer, Jackie became a CNA before opening her first daycare. On November 2, 1985, she married the love of her life Kenny and together they brought three children into this world; Kyle, Andrea and Dyllan.

In 2000, Jackie and Kenny took a leap of faith and moved their family to Montana where it would become their forever home. In 2001 Jackie started working for the Victor School District, she had a passion for teaching and made a positive impact on countless children’s lives. Jackie’s selfless nature and boundless love was evident when her and Kenny decided to become foster parents. In 2011, their family became complete when they adopted their son, Jullian. She looked forward to retiring early in 2012 and dedicating her time to her family.

Jackie enjoyed spending her time proudly cheering on her grandchildren at wrestling matches, t-ball games and gymnastics. When she wasn’t on the side lines, you would often find her with her knitting needles in hand, beaming with pride, eager to gift her handmade item to a family member or friend. One to never miss a get-together, a birthday party, a recital, an opportunity for a road trip to Oregon or even Black Friday Christmas shopping. Giving was in her nature, except for her famous potato salad recipe.

Jackie was a strong branch in our family tree. She provided strength, laughter and love. Her passing has come as a great shock and a deep wound, and it is gravely felt by her family and friends. We know she is pain free and sailing on a journey that we cannot see.

She is survived by her husband Kenny Cook, children; Kyle (Tanna) Cook, Andrea (Michael) Richie, Dyllan (Tina) Cook, Jullian Cook and her 8 grandchildren. Parents Gary and Patsy Dieu, siblings Debbie (Rod) Clarke, Russell (Heidi) Dieu, Kathi (Gregg) Miller and Jeff Dieu, Uncle Ron Dieu and Aunt Sharon Thornton, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Jackie is preceded in death by Grandparents George and Helen Dieu, Kenneth Ludwig and Dorothy Harlow.

A heartfelt “Thank You” to the Victor Volunteer Fire Department and Paramedics for their endless compassion they provided for Jackie and our family.

A Celebration of Life for Jackie will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at the Clarke residence located at 1873 Highway 93 in Victor.