1SG (Ret) James Edward Cole

James Edward Cole, son of Henry Robert Cole and Mazie Virginia (Skelton) Cole, was born March 10, 1924 in Connellsville, Pennsylvania. After graduating high school, he joined the Marine Corps where he served for 4 years. He re-enlisted with the Army serving 22 more years. His tours of duty included WWII, Korea and 2 tours of duty in VietNam. His commendations and achievements were highlighted by 3 Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, and the Vietnamese Congressional Medal of Honor for Valor. As part of the Army’s Rifle and Pistol team, James shattered many records and won many National Championships. Upon retirement from the military in 1969, he was elected Chief of Police of Waynesville where he served the community for 7 years. At the age of 54, James attended Drury University and after receiving his degree taught history at both Waynesville and Laquey High Schools. His great love in life was his family, a deeply devoted husband and father. James had a passion for the outdoors as an avid hunter and fisherman which he shared with his sons. Traveling and reading were a lifelong joy for him and he took particular pride and delight in all his grandchildren. Their athletic games brought him immense pleasure and he was their biggest fan! James was a member and actively attended Waynesville United Methodist Church. His faith was an important part of who he was. James went to heaven the morning of February 5, 2010. Treasured by his family, his presence will be ever missed by his beloved wife Martha, two sons: James K. Cole of Hurley, MO and Jeffrey L. Cole and his wife Angela of Springfield, MO; one daughter: Antoinette Keeney and her husband Robert of Eagan, MN; one sister: Helen Dinkel of Youngwood, PA; grandchildren: Robert, Daniel, Rebekah, Rachel, David, James, Jason, Kurt, Leah and Cheyanna; great grandchildren: Emily, Jonathan, Abigail, Daniel, Lucas and Elizabeth as well as many friends. Memorial services with military honors were held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 10, 2010 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert with Pastor Londia Granger Wright officiating. Pianist Cheryl Wood played “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”, “How Great Thou Art” and “Onward Christian Soldiers” for the prelude. She also accompanied the congregation as they sang “Amazing Grace” and “America the Beautiful”. Jim’s son-in-law, Bob Keeney prayed. Jim’s son, Jeff Cole read Psalm 23 and his grandchildren, Rebekah, Rachel and David Keeney read the New Testament readings. The songs “Wind Beneath My Wings” and “I Can Only Imagine” were played. Jim’s daughter, Antoinette Kenney recalled her wonderful memories of her father. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Jim Cole to the American Alzheimer’s Association and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory.

1SG (Ret) James Edward Cole

March 10, 1924 - February 5, 2010