Memories of President Emeritus Clyde Cook
One of things that always impressed me about Clyde was his sense of humor. He seemed to have just the right response for any given situation. My wife, Marianne, served as secretary to the senior vice president and provost of Biola University and often helped Clyde with some of his secretarial work when his secretary was absent or just had too much to do. So she got know him fairly well as they worked together. When Biola was celebrating their 75th annivesary they had a service down at the Church of the Open Door. There were many speakers and my wife, who was sitting on the front row of the auditorium, nodded. Her nod did not escape Clyde's attention and the next day when they met in the office Clyde said, "thank you for praying for us last night during the service." She knew he knew she nodded and the two of them had a good laugh.
I am especially appreciative of Clyde's influence on Biola University. All four of my children attended the school. and all have been influenced in a positive way by the well rounded curriculum and godly staff.
I trust the university will continue to grow following God's Word without reservation.
Thanks all you have done for us.
I remember that warm Memorial Day weekend as Dr. Cook addressed the graduating class of 2002. As I sat on the lawn, excited to have completed my degree, what I remember most clearly about that day is Dr. Cook’s admonition to “impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Every time I look at my graduation picture of Dr. Cook handing me my diploma cover, the challenge to fulfill that call stirs up within me. Though I never had a personal interaction with Dr. Cook, his presence, authority, and words echo in my memory and constantly remind me of the richness of my experience at Biola. I will forever remember Dr. Cook, because in my memory, he represents the day that God’s call to action was awakened. Thank you, Dr. Cook, for your obedience, perseverance, and faithfulness.
I was always awed by Dr. Cook's humility, and compassion for others. His love for the Lord was evident, as he spoke with and greeted students who crossed his path. During meetings, he always took time to personally thank the student workers for their help. His unique sense of humor would keep those of us attending chapel in hysterics. Most amazing was his sense of humor coupled with his ability to drive biblical points home that made a lasting impression on me. I am also blessed for having met and known his daughter, Laura throughout my time at Biola. Dr. Cook was truly a man of God. My prayers, and love go to the Cook family.
Dr. Cook, you will be missed.
Greg Calquhoun (83)
I just finished watching, make that participating along with the video of Clyde's memorial service: I sang through my tears. When I was a student, "Uncle Clyde," as we knew him, was my adviser. I remember more than once, while I was talking to him, watching him raise his hand and wave two fingers. I remember looking at him quizzically and hearing him explain that that was the second time I had said something. I didn't need to repeat myself: he was listening.
We were so shocked to hear the passing of Clyde Cook. We were always encouraged to interact with him and Anna Belle when they came to the Philippines during the 90s. Two of our children attend Biola and whenever we were able to visit the campus Clyde knew us immediately and always made us feel welcome--our kids worked hard and made it into the working world with a great Christian education that I am proud of.
We will be praying for Anna Belle and the rest of the family.
The last time I met Dr. Clyde Cook was when he invited me to address the graduating class and conferred Doctor of Letters on me in December. 1995. He was a wonderful man of God with Christ-likeness. I marveled at his simplicity and generous spirit. In his generosity he gave a tuition scholarship to me son to do BBA. I thank God upon every remembrance of . Dr.CooK..
Former General Secretary, Evangelical Fellowship of India and Evangelical Fellowship of Asia, and a former member of the International Council, World Evangelical Alliance.
I was fortunate enough to touch Dr. Clyde Cook's leg. During a dinner that the Honduras team was having in preparation for our Spring trip, Dr. Cook and Anna Belle kindly agreed to come join us. Dr. Cook got up to share words of encouragement, he did not notice that his pants had accidentally tucked inside his sock. Anna Belle looked at me and said, " Sweetie, could you please go and fix his pants." And so I did.
Dr.Cook was my advisor in Social Science (Missions emphasis) major from when I started Biola in the Spring of ' 73 to when I graduated in the Spring of ' 75. That was before the Intercultural Studies Dept. was started. I was, also, very fortunate to have him as a professor, mentor, and friend. I've greatly appreciated his guidance, instruction, wisdom, and kindness that he showed to me during my time at Biola and over the years since then. I, especially, appreciate his taking the time to pray with me. May his example of passionate love for our Lord, his dear wife Anna Belle and family, and others he touched with loving compassion and humble service encourage us to go and do likewise. May our Heavenly Father hold you in His loving arms and give you peace.
My sister and I remember Dr. Cook as a powerful example of a man of God. He was a great leader and a humble servant.
Share a Memory
Clyde Cook touched countless lives with his wisdom, humor and love for the Lord. We invite you to share your personal memories of Dr. Cook using the following form. Though submissions will not appear immediately, this page will be updated regularly to include new reflections from visitors around the world.