Photo of my great aunts Billie Jean and Betty Jo
My Great Aunt Betty Jo Cook Lesko is the only living sibling of my grandmother, Emma Cook Ray Mann. Betty and her twin sister, Billie Jean were born in Kentucky but as children, the family relocated to Granite City, Illinois. Aunt Betty was the one member of the family who moved away from Granite City and relocated in California and Maryland depending on Joe's work requirements. Betty and Joe are retired and enjoying their grandchildren.
Betty is one of my favorite relatives, it seems likes she is always smiling.Photo of my great aunts Billie Jean and Betty Jo
Betty's two earliest memories deal with the Paducah, Ky flood of 1937. She can remember ducking under power lines while in a boat, and the terrible case of infintigo she had because of the flood. Betty also tells a great story about being about 5 years old and going to see the newest addition to the family in a Detroit hospital (probably Bob Ray - her nephew). Apparently, while skipping down the hall of the hospital with her twin Billy Jean, a local kid came up to skip with them. Terrified, Betty ran away screaming!
Betty can also tell stories about dragging Bob to Emerson School in Granite City, Illinois. Bob just did not want to go, and it was up to his aunts Billy and Betty to insure he made it there. My dad, Bob, stayed went to school from his grandparent's home as his mother worked in support of the war effort during WWII. His aunts were old enough to keep dad in line.
Family Group Report
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Husband: JOSEPH LESKO
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Wife: BETTY JO COOK
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Birth: 1933
Father: JASPER MARVIN COOK (1893-1955)
Mother: CORA MAYHUE LONG (1893-1969)
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Children...
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1. M Child: JOSEPH LESKO JR
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2. F Child: BARBARA LESKO
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3. F Child: REBECCA LESKO
Wife's Notes...
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Pat Scheele's e-mail: [email protected]
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