John Cookson

John Samuel Cookson was born on October 23, 1932, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of John and Leona (Neumeg) Cookson. He grew up in West Allis, Wisconsin, where he graduated from high school. He then attended Hastings College in Hastings, Nebraska, where he played football and graduated with an education degree.

In 1953, John enlisted in the United States Army. On February 20, 1954, he was united in marriage with Elsie Hansen in Hastings, Nebraska. Together, they were blessed with two children, Lynette and Brad. At the time of their marriage, John was serving in the U.S. Army, and the couple made their home in Norfolk, Virginia.

Following his honorable discharge, John and Elsie returned to Hastings, Nebraska, where they both pursued careers in education. Throughout the years, they lived in both Nebraska and Colorado, and John devoted more than 30 years to public education as a teacher, coach, and administrator. In 1993, they retired and moved to Denison to be closer to their daughter, Lynette, and their grandchildren.

John was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Denison and the Denison Kiwanis Club. He loved spending time outdoors, whether it be camping, fishing, or golfing. He also enjoyed watching sports, especially the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Coaching remained one of his greatest passions, and even in retirement he continued to volunteer as a coach with both the Denison-Schleswig and Ar-We-Va Community Schools. He also spent many years substitute teaching following his retirement. Above all, John cherished time spent with his family.

John passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Gracewell in Denison, Iowa at the age of 93 years, seven months and 12 days. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Elsie Cookson; son, Brad Cookson; daughter, Lynette Ludwig; and sisters Barbara, Donna, Betty, Joanne, Norine, Kathleen, and Virginia.

He is survived by his son-in-law, Robert Ludwig of Vail; grandchildren: Matt (Jamie) Ludwig of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Zach Ludwig of Breda, and Seth (Jessica) Ludwig of Westside; great-grandchildren: Zoey, Wyatt, Alexa, Greylin and Walter; and other family members and friends.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026, at the King Cemetery near Vail. Memorials may be directed to the family.