Tracy L. Cook, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin and friend, left this world too soon, at 36, on February 10, 2022. She entered heaven peacefully surrounded by her family.

She was born in Lima, Ohio on August 13, 1985, to Tyler and Carole (Riepenhoff) Cook, who survive in Elida. Tracy lived most of her life in Elida and was a 2004 Elida High School graduate. She also spent some years in Columbus, Ohio and attended The Ohio State University. She had worked at various restaurants including The Crest in Clintonville, OH, Old City Prime and Beer Barrel. Tracy was also a phlebotomist and had worked at New Vision Laboratories in Lima.

Tracy struggled the majority of her life with health issues, but that did not stop her from living her life to the fullest. She was a very loving and compassionate person, who was entertaining with her great sense of humor. She had the most beautiful smile that could light up the room. She was an inspiration who had the biggest heart and loved to generously give to others. Her passion in life was music, dancing, nature, traveling, beautiful sunsets, and being the best aunt ever.

She had many miracles in her lifetime, but her proudest miracle was when she received her father’s kidney at the age of 15 in December 2000 for a life-saving transplant. She lived a wonderful life, but her most challenging obstacle was in September 2014 when an autoimmune disease left her paralyzed. Tracy’s parents became her caregivers, but she referred to them as her “roomies.” She lived as long as she did and had the best life because of their love and excellent care. Over the years, she had many loving, devoted nurses who assisted with her care. One particular nurse who became a part of the family and was very close to Tracy was Anara Merschman. She provided outstanding care, helped with therapy, and brought laughter even on the darkest days. Tracy was extremely grateful for her!

Tracy enjoyed her morning coffee on the deck and then watching the sunsets in the evening. She always loved spending time with her family and visits from friends. She had an amazing, indescribable bond with her sister. Most of all she adored her niece and nephews, and their dog Archie, they were her world. Tracy was also blessed to have all of her aunts, uncles, and cousins to support her throughout her medical journey. For those who knew Tracy, our lives will never be the same without her.

We know Tracy is finally dancing and walking again, but this time she is doing this in heaven. “But those who trust in the Lord will become strong again. They will be like eagles that grow new feathers. They will run and not get weak. They will walk and not get tired.” Isaiah 40:31

Surviving in addition to her parents Tyler and Carole Cook of Elida are her sister Kellie (Anthony) Crist of Elida; her niece Alyssa Jagger; her nephews Preston, Parker and Kamden Crist; her aunt and uncles Paul (Deb) Riepenhoff, Rick (Mary Ann) Riepenhoff, Gary (Jean Ann) Sadler, Jim (Chris) Conrad, Tim (Deb) Riepenhoff, Chuck (Pam) Riepenhoff, Brian (Lynda) Cook and Lee (Lynell) Cook; her special friends Lyndsay Martin, Nicole Scheid, Nicole Moor and Anna Oyer. She is also survived by several first and second cousins.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Lloyd (Thelma) Cook; her maternal grandparents Paul (Helen) Riepenhoff, Sr.; her uncle Fred Cook.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at CHILES-LAMAN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, SHAWNEE CHAPEL.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 17, 2022 at St. Gerard Catholic Church, with Fr. Paul Matthew officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to the National Kidney Foundation. The family also wishes to thank everyone who supported them and Tracy through fundraisers, special interests, and care.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.