Thomas O. Cook, 63, a longtime Chicago businessman, died of cancer Saturday, May 4, in his son’s Goose Lake home, near Morris. Mr. Cook was born in Chicago and grew up learning the family business, adhesives producer National Casein Co. “He started sweeping floors and then to making glue and eventually running the company,” said his son, Dr. Louis “Ted” Cook. The company was started in 1921 by Mr. Cook’s grandfather. Mr. Cook knew every aspect of the business but still chose to go to college, earning a bachelor’s and master’s in business from the University of Chicago. “He didn’t need to go to school, but he wanted a better comprehension of the business world,” said his son. “And he wanted to be a better manager.” The company changed over the years, most recently developing vinyl film laminating adhesives. When he wasn’t working, Mr. Cook enjoyed hunting and fishing, said his son. Other survivors include a daughter, Deborah Porter; his parents, Charles and Phyllis; a brother, David Cook; and four grandchildren. Services are private.
