William Edward Cole
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and hero — a proud Army veteran and a man who truly had a heart of gold.
To know him was to love him. He was the kindest soul, a devoted family man, a legendary storyteller, and the best PawPaw anyone could ever ask for. He didn’t have a mean bone in his body and lived his life with quiet strength, unwavering kindness, and fierce love for his family. Whether it was a school event, sports game, or family gathering, PawPaw was always there — present, joyful, and endlessly supportive.
Anyone who spent time around our family undoubtedly met him and was touched by his warmth. He was the kind of man who made you feel at home with a smile, a laugh, or a good story. Simply put, he was the best.
Though our hearts are broken, we find immense peace in knowing he is reunited in heaven with those he held closest: his loving wife, Sharon Cole; his cherished siblings Mary Bond, Bob Cole, Nancy Dahm, and Larry Cole; and his dear son in law, Russ Chittenden, whom he missed so deeply. We know he was welcomed at heaven’s gates with open arms and joyful embraces.
He is survived by his loving daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie (Michael) Schmuck, Lea Ann (Rusty) Chittenden, and Laurie (Vern) Johnson. He was the proud grandfather of Ashley (Adam) Pickett, Nikki (James) Daugherty, Erin Schmuck, Danielle (Kris) Waked, Tim Cowin, Carrie (Craig) Snarzyk, Alyssa Cowin, Taylor (Aaron) Hagenhoff, and Sammy Cowin. His legacy continues through his adoring great-grandchildren: Blair, Reece, Tyson, Makenna, Reagan, Nora, JR, Drake, Scarlett, Chloe, Kalani, Kai, Willow, Mia, Eva, and Jordy — who lovingly called him “Big Grandpa.”
The world’s best dad and pawpaw. It’s so unreal that u are gone. Still walk to room to check on. You always there for your family. He always made sure there was food on table and have what we needed. Dad, I will forever miss you. You taught me so much in life. If I could do it all over, I would not hesitate. I hope you and mom up there dancing in the stars. Sweet dreams, Dad I will see u again. We will forever keep your stories and dreams alive. I love dad. U will always be my hero!
Uncle Bill you will be missed so much. Are families were always together hanging out you were such a constant person in our life’s journey. You were definitely one of kind. I will always remember you stopping at johnny and my house early weekends for coffee while driving the tow truck. I will forever miss you Uncle Bill. I love you. Terri
Uncle Bill you will be forever missed I think I was at your house just as much as mine growing up you were such a huge part of our life when we were kids and as we got older so many memories with you I am sure you all are having a grand old time up in heaven you were one of a kind and one of the best we will miss you RIP uncle Bill love you forever
Cindy
I will cherish every memory I have growing up with you in it to adulthood you carrying my granddaughters around trying to give her a “drink” 😉 I’m so thankful I grew up in a time when families were close as we all were. Our cousins were our first friends & our uncles showed us how we were to be treated by the way ya’all treated our aunts. You will forever live in our hearts. Give my mama a hug for me. We will miss you uncle Bill!
Uncle Bill you were so much fun to be around.You left me a bunch of great memories when all your siblings were together.You had stories that could go on for days I will miss you dearly rest in paradise I love you