Sheldon “Shelly” Zook, 67, son of Norman and Luverna (Crawley) Zook, was born Jan. 2, 1947 in Newton, Kan. He passed away Aug. 14, 2014, in Springfield, Mo.
Shelly grew up on the West Prong of Roubidoux Creek on a dairy farm.
He graduated from Houston High School and got his bachelor’s degree in Biology from Hannibal LaGrange College.
He met the love of his life, Wilma Hildebrand, at church. They were married on June 18, 1966. They celebrated 48 wonderful years together this past June.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Clarence and Grace Zook and Vess and Marie Crawley; his parents; and one sister.
He is survived by his wife, Wilma of Buffalo, Mo.; one son, Aaron and wife, Lisa Zook, of Buffalo, Mo.; grandchildren, Jay and Veronica, Christian, David, Savannah, Sebastian, Alexus and Alivia; one great-grandson, Tucker; two brothers, Larry Zook and wife, Nancy, of Springfield, Mo., and Byron Zook and wife, Susie, of Ozark, Mo.; many nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
Shelly served in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970 during the Vietnam conflict.
Shelly taught and pastored in north Missouri for 10 years. He and Wilma eventually moved back to the Ozarks, where he so much enjoyed the beautiful outdoors, being able to hunt and fish to his heart’s content. He also enjoyed watching baseball and football.
Maybe it was because of farm life that Shelly had a special affection for cats. They were his special “kids” and he loved having them near.
Shelly’s true heart was serving people. He loved teaching and even after many years the comments from former students were, “He really made school fun,” ” I loved his class,” “Sure do miss him,” and “He was my favorite teacher.” What a wonderful legacy to leave behind, the respect and love of those he worked with and cared about.
There was always music in the Zook home as he grew up and that carried over into adult life. He loved to sing and listen to gospel music. It was so important in his life and his ministry. There was also a spark of wit and humor about him. His quick witty responses to everyone made him fun to be with and could give you a quick pick-up just when it was needed.
In the ministry, Shelly also had a great love for people. He had a heart for those that needed to hear about the love and saving grace of a wonderful Savior, Jesus Christ. He preached the Word, led many to the Lord and baptized them.
His love was for his Savior first, but family was so special and close to him. He loved to be with them, share special events, birthdays, holidays and sporting events. He never tired of being with those he loved most.
He will be missed but he might encourage us with the words of Paul,” I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Therefore there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but to all them also that love his appearing.” II Timothy 4:7-8
Services were 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18, 2014, at Roby Baptist Church with the Rev. Glen Forman, the Rev. Mike Yeltin and the Rev. Roger Easter officiating. Burial with full military honors was in the Long Hollow Cemetery under the direction of Evans Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to the Gideons. Online condolences may be sent to www.evansfh.com.
PAID
