Gayland Braun Cook

On July 19, 2016, Gayland Braun Cook, age 64, of Franklin Park, passed away unexpectedly. Beloved husband of Janet Cook; father of Brandon (Jenna) Cook & Heather (Paul) Persic; brother of Anthony (Sandy) Cook; grandfather of Graham & Luke Persic & Brooklyn Cook; uncle of Sara, Courtney, Bryson, Michelle, Jennifer & Noel; brother-in-law of Carolyn Grundy & Linda Carter; Born to Anthony Wayne Cook, Jr. and Dorothy McClintock Cook on May 16th, 1952. His childhood was spent in Cook Forest with his family, where he enjoyed the splendor of his surroundings. He graduated from The Hill School in Pottstown, PA in 1970 and Allegheny College in Meadville, PA in 1974, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. Gayland met the love of his life, and future wife, Janet Noel in 1969. They were married after completing college, in 1974. Gayland began his business career in banking in Punxsutawney, PA with Keystone National Bank, where he became President and CEO. His leadership role remained uninterrupted as the bank changed names to Union National Bank and eventually Integra Bank. In 1988, he and his family moved to Pittsburgh so he could continue serving the bank. He left the banking industry in 1996 to start a venture capital firm with a fellow colleague. Gayland devoted a great deal of time and expertise to numerous charitable organizations. He served a number of different hospitals throughout the years. Family House, which was near and dear to his heart, benefited from his steadfastness and guidance for 28 years. He served his church, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Wexford, in many capacities. Gayland found enjoyment in maintaining the property around his home. Throughout his life, he loved being a part of nature, skiing in the mountains, and spending time with his family. His greatest joy in the past few years was getting to know his amazing grandchildren, Graham, Luke and Brooklyn. Pop Pop Gayland surely will be missed. His steady demeanor, unconditional love, few but magnificently wise words, and unrivaled listening ear are gifts he graced upon his family. Gayland touched so many in his all too short life, and would want those who knew and loved him, to celebrate the gifts that God has given us. Friends received Friday, July 22nd, from 1 - 3 & 6 - 9 pm & Saturday 9 - 10 am at Simons Funeral Home, 7720 Perry Highway. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, 11:00 am, at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Wexford 2500 Brandt School Rd. Contributions may be made to Family House, www.familyhouse.org or Trinity Evangelical Church, www.trinitywexford.org www.simonsfuneralhome.com

Gayland Braun Cook

May 16, 1952 - July 19, 2016