Dena Cook, 103, of Spearfish, SD passed away on March 18, 2010 at Dorsett Regional Senior Care in Spearfish.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Monday, March 22, 2010 at the United Church of Christ with Pastor Peg Grzelkowski officiating, burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Spearfish. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. to 10:30 prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family has established memorials in her name to benefit the United Church of Christ.

Dena was born December 24, 1906 to Henricus and Reebstine "Rena" (Claassen) Krull near DeSmet, SD. She graduated from Harrold High School and attended Spearfish Normal School during the 1920's receiving her teaching certificate, and was recently honored as the oldest living graduate of Black Hills State University. She taught in many rural school before marrying Roy Walter Cook on April 8, 1932 in Miller, SD. To this union one son, LeRoy, was born on August 16, 1934. As a family, they lived at the Tinton Mining Company during World War II for several years and cooked 4 meals a day for the men, and was able to get supplies such as sugar since she was cooking for a camp. Dena also served meals for tourists in her home and treated them like family. Her home was always a place to feel welcomed at any time.

Dena worked for Wamsley Furniture and Drapery business for many years. You could always pick out her drapes anywhere, as they were perfectly sewn and hung. After a heart attack, they added a sewing room to their home and she made drapes for the very finest homes in the area. Dena also worked for O'Neil's Furniture and Upholstery and did upholstery work for a number of years. Again, each piece was perfectly done. She also worked for other drapery companies in the area.

Dena and Roy had the most beautiful asparagus garden in the area, but there were reasons for this: It must not be cut after the first of July, and salt was applied to the bed to keep the weeds under control. Dena has a record for the number of afghans she crocheted for people, and had a special hobby of raising all kinds of African Violets-every color and kind.

She is survived by three granddaughters, three grandsons and ten great-grandchildren. Special friends include Jim and Janice Clarkson of Spearfish and Donneen and Chad Mundt whom she held dear to her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Roy, son LeRoy and two stepsons Donald and Walter, and niece and nephew, Marian and Florin Hemminger.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels & Crematory Service of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com