Jon Cook Work Hard and Go Forth to Serve Scholarship

Jon Robert Cook was a beloved husband and father who died from complications of Parkinson’s Disease in January 2026.

Jon was born in 1950 in St. Ignatius, Montana. He was a high achiever in school and excelled in academics, music, and sports. Jon earned a college scholarship and worked through school to cover his living expenses. He went on to serve in the U.S. Navy and to earn his MBA. Jon was a hard worker and put his all into every endeavor. From coaching to running a marathon to serving in his church, he lived life to the fullest. 

When Parkinson’s Disease started limiting his active lifestyle, Jon made sure to keep his curious mind active, and he enrolled in independent study courses on a myriad of subjects. He wanted “death with dignity,” which to him meant enduring to the end. Jon maintained the most socially, mentally, and physically active life possible for him and maintained a “work hard play hard” mentality.

This scholarship aims to honor the life of Jon Cook, who was cared for by many young and caring individuals, by supporting self-sufficient students pursuing ongoing education in the healthcare field. 

Any high school senior, undergraduate, or trade school student in Utah who is/was a CNA, paramedic, EMT, firefighter, home health caregiver, personal care attendant at a nursing home, or worked in home health and emergency services, and who is pursuing ongoing education in the healthcare field, may apply for this scholarship opportunity if they are at least partially self-supporting their living expenses and education. Preference will be given to those with with at least a 3.0 GPA.

To apply, tell us about yourself and how your work experience has impacted or enhanced your education.