George W. Cook, 98, of Woodsfield, Ohio, (formerly of Hackney, Ohio) passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the Arbors of Woodsfield.
 He was born at Boone, N.C., on May 12, 1926, a son of the late William J. Cook and Mollie Vandyke Cook.
 George was a retired heavy equipment operator and was a member of United Mine Workers. He had operated the biggest drag line and ran the “Big Muskie”. He was a U.S. Navy veteran serving his country during W.W. II; a member of Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodge, Beverly, Ohio, and attended First United Methodist Church, Woodsfield. He was also an avid deer hunter and fisherman.
 In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Cook, on May 22, 2020; a brother, Dayton Cook and a sister, Harlena Hayes.
 Surviving are one daughter, Janice (William) Massey of Malta, Ohio; two sons, Gary (Judy) Cook of Woodsfield, Mike (Gail) Cook of Flatgap, Ky.; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; 11 step-great-grandchildren.
 Friends will be received at Watters Funeral Home, 37501 State Route 78, Woodsfield, from 3 – 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2025, where Masonic and funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. with Pastor David Cottrell officiating.
 Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Malta Cemetery, Malta, Ohio, with military graveside services.
 Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 136 N. Main St., Woodsfield, OH 43793.