Bill Cook, medical manufacturer and local philanthropist, dies at 80

The founder of Bloomington-based medical equipment manufacturer Cook Group Inc. and Bloomington area philanthropist Bill Cook died Friday afternoon.

Cook, a Mattoon, Ill., native born in 1931, earned a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University in 1953 and studied as a graduate student at Trinity University in Texas. Last September his wealth was estimated at $3.1 billion by Forbes Magazine.

According to Cook’s biography on IU’s website, he specialized in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, genetics, real estate, retail management and travel services. Yet despite his success he remained heavily involved in the community, including involving himself in historic preservation.

David McCarty, director of Global Public Relations for Cook Medical, confirmed that Cook passed away around 4:30 p.m. He was 80.

In 2009, Cook was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philanthropy from Spoon River College in Canton, Ill. This was one of many awards for his philanthropic accomplishments.

Details regarding Cook’s death have not been released, though McCarty said he is currently working to inform the public as soon as possible. Continue checking idsnews.com for updates.