Ganice Dee Cook was born on December 22, 1960, in Sanger, California, to Eva G. Cook and William Cook. She entered the world just one hour and five minutes after her twin sister Ganeen, a detail Ganice always made sure everyone knew, because she was, after all, the younger sister. That one hour and five minutes began a lifelong bond that was uniquely theirs. Ganice passed away at home on September 9, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona.
Ganice was an avid reader, a lifelong learner, and someone who believed there was always something new to discover. She earned her teaching degree from Arizona State University. Although serious injuries and physical challenges prevented her from teaching in a traditional classroom, Ganice was, in every sense of the word, a teacher throughout her entire life. She taught through conversation, curiosity, determination, encouragement, and simply by the way she lived. When Ganice became interested in something, she did not just wonder about it—she learned it. If she wanted to play lead guitar, she learned how and played. If she wanted to garden, she studied it and gardened. Whatever captured her interest became an opportunity to grow, learn, and challenge herself. Ganice refused to allow her physical limitations to define the boundaries of her mind or spirit. She would say, “You know, my body may not be cooperating with me, and this wheelchair gets in the way, but no one and nothing can ever take away my knowledge.”
That determination was at the heart of who Ganice was. But more than anything else, Ganice wanted people to know about her love for Jesus. Her faith was not simply something she believed. It was the foundation of her life and the hope she wanted to share with everyone around her. Ganice knew that each of us will one day make the same journey she has now completed. Her greatest desire was for others to know that death is not the end and that paradise awaits those who place their faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the One who saves. For those who knew and loved Ganice, there is comfort in knowing that the faith she spoke about throughout her life has now become sight. Ganice will be remembered for her curious mind, her determination, her love of learning, her willingness to teach and encourage others, and above all, her unwavering faith in Jesus. Her body may have presented her with many obstacles during her lifetime, but it could never contain her mind, diminish her spirit, or take away the hope she found in Christ.
Ganice is survived by her sister, Ganeen (John) Harstick; nieces and nephews, Brandon (Julie) Keeling, Trevor (Rachel) Keeling, Reba Harstick, David Harstick, Josh Harstick, Shayla Harstick, Sharaya Harstick, and Kate Harstick; and seven great-nieces and great-nephews.
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