06/09/2026
Today, we celebrate what would have been the 112th birthday of Loren Cook, founder of Loren Cook Company.
Born in Spokane, Missouri, in 1914, Loren's journey took him from a small-town upbringing to Chicago, where he attended Coyne Electrical Radio School. Loren was employed by W.W. Grainger while funding his schooling & room & board at the local YMCA. In 1941, he founded Loren Cook Company in Berea, Ohio, operating out of a building no larger than a three-car garage.
Through hard work, innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit, he transformed that humble beginning into a company that continues to grow 85 years later.
Today, the company remains family-led, with Loren's son Jerry Cook serving as Chairman and CEO, grandson Loren Cook II as President, and now a fourth generation carrying forward the legacy he began more than eight decades ago.
As we celebrate both Loren's birthday and our 85th anniversary year, we remember the vision, determination, and perseverance that built the foundation for everything we are today.
Here's to the founder who started it all. Happy Birthday, Loren Cook. 🎉