Danny Lee Cook

Danny Lee Cook of Mansfield, Missouri, passed peacefully from this life on November 14, 2025, in his home, with his beloved bride by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Danny was born on February 15, 1953, in Seymour, Missouri, to John and Roxie (Johns) Cook. He was the eighth of nine children and the baby boy of the family.

In September of 1968, fate and a good friend stepped in, Jerry Milsap showed Danny a picture of a pretty girl, and soon the two rode six miles on Danny’s horse, Poncho, just so he could meet her. That girl was Bonnie Coday. Danny liked to tell people that Bonnie didn’t care much for him at first, but she did like his horse. And that was all he needed.

The high school sweethearts married on May 25, 1972, and spent more than five decades building a life filled with love, partnership, and family.

Danny is survived by his devoted wife Bonnie, daughter Amanda and her husband, Robert Doneski, son Adam and his wife, Natalie Cook, and five cherished grandchildren, Eli and wife Sadie Cook, Christian and wife Chloe Doneski, Emma Cook, Claire Doneski, and Emry Lee Cook. He was also blessed to meet his great-grandson, RJ Doneski.

He leaves behind two brothers, Earl and Kenny Cook; two sisters, Dorothy Cole and Francis Davis; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and countless friends who loved him dearly.

Danny spent the majority of his life doing what he loved, dairy farming. Working the land and tending the herd brought him purpose, but it was the time spent farming alongside Bonnie and later his son Adam that brought him true joy.

He also dedicated many years to serving his community as a member of the Hartville School Board, always wanting the best for local children.

Danny was his kids’ biggest supporter coaching Adam’s T-ball, baseball, and basketball teams, and proudly watching Amanda cheer. As a Papa, he was unmatched. Watching his grandchildren play ball, cheer, and grow brought him more joy than anything else.

Danny was truly the very best. He had a heart full of kindness and a deep desire to help others. Whether it was lending a hand on a neighbor’s farm, stopping to fix something for someone who needed it, offering encouragement, or simply sharing a smile and a laugh, Danny gave freely of himself. He made people feel important, cared for, and never alone. His goodness left a mark on everyone who crossed his path.

Those who knew Danny will always remember his constant smile, his contagious laugh, and his love for teasing and joking with the people he cared about. He never met a stranger, and he never missed a chance to brighten someone’s day.

Danny’s life was marked by love, hard work, generosity, and faith. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the family he cherished.

He will be missed deeply, more than words can ever say. Life will never be the same without him, but the love he gave and the memories he created will carry on forever.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wolf Creek Cemetery in care of the funeral home.