Katherine Zook

Kaye died August 28, 2016 at the age of 99 at The Garlands of Barrington.

Born February 7, 1917 to A.N. Hoffman and Elsie Trigg Hoffman of Parkston, South Dakota, Kaye graduated from high school at the age of 16 as valedictorian of her class, and went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Food Science from Iowa State University. After graduating, she married veterinarian Roy F. Zook, and they settled in Barrington. There Roy set up his practice; Kaye was hired as a food writer by the Chicago Daily News. Her career was interrupted by World War II, as she and Roy were continually moved from city to city by the Army.

Later, while raising her children in Barrington, Kaye was active in the PTA, Scouting, the Barrington Women’s Club, Salem Methodist Church, and other community organizations. She also helped Roy with the operation of the Zook Animal Hospital on Northwest Highway. After Roy’s untimely death in 1960, Kaye was employed by the Quaker Oats Research Laboratory in Barrington as a Food Scientist, and was in charge of the quantitative descriptive analysis of their food products.
She retired in 1982, and subsequently moved to Lake Barrington Shores, where she enjoyed golf, swimming, and playing Bridge in numerous clubs. During this time Kaye developed and managed a very successful investment portfolio for herself, and took great pleasure in analyzing the stock market.
Kaye became a member a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in 1996, and until recently participated in various activities there. She loved to read, and was ever ready for travel to far places. Kaye had a cheerful disposition, was always kind and gentle, and made many friends throughout her life.

She is survived by her son, Michael Roy Zook of Chicago; daughter, Patricia Ann Zook of Barrington; grandchildren, Kirsten and Michael Zook Jr.; and great-granddaughters, Elise and Helene Huff.

The funeral for Kaye will be held on Thursday, September 15 beginning at 10 a.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 337 Ridge Rd., Barrington. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Barrington.