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Eugene Sole Obituary
SOLE, EUGENE F. "GENE", LIEUTENANT COLONEL, USMC RET., 48 - of Cape May passed away on Thursday morning, August 11, 2011 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He will be missed by his loving family which includes his wife of 20 years, Sarah "Betsy" (nee Craig) Sole and their two sons, Tyler and Jackson, all of Cape May. He was a devoted son of Sandra H. Sole and the late LtCol. Joseph A. Sole, USMC Ret., of Tallahassee, FL and the brother of Mike (and Jeannie) Sole of Tallahassee, FL and Terri (and Oscar) Madrazo of Orlando, FL. He will also be dearly missed by his nine nieces and nephews and many, many close friends. Gene lived a life of selfless service to our nation and community as a United States Marine and an educator. He is a proud graduate of the University of Florida where he was the Vice President of his Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Upon graduation, he was commissioned an officer in the Marine Corps. He led Marines in various infantry and security force units at Camp Pendleton, CA; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; Charleston, SC; Camp Lejeune, NC and several overseas deployments. His Marine Corps brethren described Gene as a "natural and gifted leader who was greatly respected and loved by his Marines". He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Marine Corps after 20 years of combined service on both active and reserve duty. A highly decorated Veteran of the Gulf War, Somalia, and Iraq, he is the recipient of numerous medals, citations and awards, to include the Bronze Star Medal. Gene was a beacon of leadership, patriotism, and courage to the youth of Lower Cape May and the many Marines he commanded. He had a distinguished career in the Lower Cape May School District where he served as a teacher, Vice Principal of Lower Cape May Regional High School and, most recently, the Principal of the Richard M. Teitelman Middle School. Gene was the Scout Master of Boy Scout Troop #73. He coached little league baseball and football in the Lower Township area and was the Assistant Soccer Coach at LCMRHS. He was a member of the Cape May City Volunteer Fire Company and Treasurer of the Cape May County Republican Party. Gene's devotion to his family and friends was unsurpassed. His marriage of twenty years to Betsy was filled with many loving and joyous moments and even more laughs, as they both shared the same bone dry sense of humor---often at Gene's expense. His self deprecating wit was legendary and touched everyone he met and some he hadn't. They met while Gene was stationed in Charleston, SC where Betsy was residing after college. After their marriage in Cape May, they spent time in beautiful Fort Sill, Oklahoma and scenic Camp Lejeune, NC until ultimately settling in Cape May after Gene left active duty. He took immense pride in watching his two sons excel in the classroom, on the athletic fields, and in scouting endeavors, and felt his greatest legacy was watching them both become "young men of honor". Both have inherited Gene's unassuming brand of leadership and discipline with Tyler, an Eagle Scout and incoming Ohio State freshman in the Marine ROTC program, and Jack, a three sport high school athlete, gifted student and aspiring Eagle Scout. Both have also worked hard since a young age at local restaurants during summers and school breaks. Gene lived a very full life in too short of a time, and the positive impact he had on countless others is immeasurable. He loved his family, friends and country and always gave of himself and put others first. He was a devout Catholic who led by example. He enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest. He will be missed immensely. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Monday (Aug. 15th) from 6-9pm at the Lower Cape May Regional Performing Arts Center, 687 Route 9, Cape May. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday (Aug. 16th) at 11am in St. John of God Church (St. John Neumann Parish), 680 Townbank Rd., N. Cape May. Interment with Military Honors will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Lower Township. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Gene's memory are suggested to The Gene Sole Scholarship Fund, c/o the Sturdy Savings Bank, 701 Washington St., Cape May, NJ 08204. (Spilker Funeral Home, Cape May) info and condolences: www.spilkerfuneralhome.com.
This obituary was originally published in The Press of Atlantic City.
Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Sole
Sponsored by Juanita (Jane) Schmidt/Breland née Wheatley.
Reenlistment at Guantanamo Bay, john Quick MOH location.
Robert Thielen
July 5, 2022
I enjoyed serving as his 1st Platoon Sergeant from 1988-1989 in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Dedicated leader with a great sense of humor. It was a pleasure to share the platoon leadership roles with him, and I am sad to learn of his passing. He gave me a lot of freedom and trust, to develop as a leader and excel as a person.
MICHAEL GIBSON
August 6, 2021
As I read the obituary, I remembered knowing Gene in College at the University of Florida. Playing basketball at our apartment complex, Towne Parc, and his dry sense of humor that would always crack me up. The memory of Gene simply makes me smile. I am better for having had the privilege of knowing him. He is missed.
Chris Mark
April 19, 2019
I served under captain Sole in the early 1990s. He was a fine man and fine Marine. Semper Fi sir! Till Valhalla!
Philip Archibeque
June 17, 2018
Captain Sole sir(as I knew you while you at MCSF Co 1st plt Charleston SC) you were always a great inspiration to me as a US Marine and as a civilian. I will run the 2019 Los Angeles marathon in your honor sir. My condolences to your family and Semper Fi sir, Cpl Archibeque USMC 1988-1992
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CALVIN CARLSTROM
January 1, 2018
LT COL Gene Sole, my last Commanding Officer in the Marine Corps...and one of the finest. Despite quite a few adversities we had to endure, we had many laughs together and were able to accomplish our mission during Iraqi Freedom for our units deployed troops in 2003. Both of us being teachers , we had a lot in common. I think about you often and miss our professional working relationship and personal friendship. I only regret is that I was unaware of your passing until after the fact....I would have been there for you and your family. SEMPER FIDELIS MARINE.. RIP. MSGT Cal Carlstrom USMC RET.
Bo Lutz
December 23, 2014
I knew then Capt Sole at MCSF Charleston as I was known as Cpl Lutz. I was under his command when he promoted me meritoriously to Cpl. He was a great leader and remember playing softball with him. I know he met his bride in Charleston. Very sorry for your loss and as I have enjoyed success as a business leader post Marine Corps, I will remain forever in his debt from what I learned from him around leadership. Semper Fi.
Rickey Starks
September 6, 2013
I was saddened to hear about LtCol Sole passing. I remember serving in Charleston and he always took care of his Marines in his platoon and even th ones who did not serve in his platoon. My favorite memory of him was we had a Halloween party and he came dressed in a 80's mullet wig, sports jacket, blue jeans, tie dye t shirt, and high tops and claimed he was a civilian. Another memory of him when he presided over a summary court martial in which I was the baliff, he called me Matt Dillion in which the way I walked and acted during the court martial.I remember him coming to my room after I was being medically discharged from the Marines and I was very discouraged and I did not know what the future held for me at that time, but he gave me some encouraging words. I will never forget that. Semper Fi my brother you will be missed. Rickey Starks Sioux Falls, South Dakota
David Jacobson
April 29, 2012
Great leader ! Was my Captain while I served in USMC In Charleston SC , remember him well , could always count on him making sure we were all great Marines
Semper Fi
L/Cpl Dave Jacobson
Dave Kepper
April 29, 2012
'Airborne and Semper Gumby', LtCol. Sole! (As he used to say to me after completing Jump School and receiving my Jump Wings shortly after he did. POMFLANT Charleston, SC '88 - '90). Something tells me he is now sky diving and leading a battalion of angels in Heaven. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends who surely feel the loss of a great man and leader.
Ronald Etheridge
November 11, 2011
Lt. Sole was my first platoon commander in the U.S.M.C. WPNS CO2/9. Would like give condolences to his family. He was a great marine, and all around good person.
RICH CLACK
November 9, 2011
A TRUE LEATHERNECK! YOU WILL BE MISSED! SGT CLACK WPNS CO2/9
DON CAPORALE
September 20, 2011
Lt Col Sole was my CA Detachment Commander during my 2d tour to Iraq. He steadfest leadership and guidance got us through some very trying times --- especially during OPERATION STEEL CURTAIN in combat ops around the Syrian Border. He was a REAL Marine, and an even better MAN. He will be missed. Maj L. D. Caporale (Det 3-4, 6th CAG)
Eric Crowe
September 12, 2011
I served with "Second Lt." Sole with Weapons Company 2/9 Camp Pendleton, Ca. It was my first unit in the Corps and I respected him for the respect he gave to us but most of all how humble he was. I remember his little green convertable MG and our overseas deployment together to Oki and the Phillipines. My heartfelt condolences to his entire family. He was a great leader! S/F... Eric Crowe Kingston, Ontario Canada.
Matt Hess
September 3, 2011
I served with Captain Sole at MCSF Charleston, SC in 1990/91. I would really appreciate your home address. If someone would contact me at 608-201-5822 or email me at [email protected] I would be grateful. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Semper Fi!
1stSgt Paul McPheeters
August 30, 2011
I knew him as Capt. Sole from MCSF Charleston SC. I even remember his promotion to Capt. He was my Platoon Cmmander and the officer that applied my oath of reenlistment to the reserves. He was a man of fairness and honor, that others could rely on. Heaven is a better place since he reported for duty. Semer Fi!
Gabriel Hink
August 30, 2011
Capt. Sole was my first CO @ MCSF Charleston SC. Much of the leader & Instructor I am today is role modled from his leadership. The man was the best leader I have known. I have always wanted to see him again & let him know that the young Marine he knew is the "Self Made Man" I am today. The news today told me I will never get that chance. Anothercase of Cancer taking away some of our best people. Semper Fi Gene, You are a true hero & role model to many that had the honor & privilege to serve with you as MARINES.
Kennie Harris
August 30, 2011
I knew this man as Captain Sole, 1st Platoon Commander, Marine Security Force Company, Charleston. As a young enlisted man, I looked up to him with admiration and respect, and he treated us all fairly and respectfully in return. I have occasionally looked him up to follow his career; and I see that he never changed. I am saddened to hear of his loss, and my prayers go out to his family and friends. He was most definitely "Always Faithful".
-Lance Corporal Harris
Rob Ouellette
August 21, 2011
I am so sorry for the loss of Lt. Col. Sole. He was a great leader and an inspiration to many Marines. I served under him during our tour in Iraq as part of 6th CAG and it was because of him that we had the best Det. in the CAG.
The Bender Family
August 21, 2011
Mr Sole you will be truly missed espically by the kids our thoughts and prayers to all the Sole family
Michele (Chiumento) Waters
August 20, 2011
Betsy, Tyler and Jack...I just heard the news and so so sorry for your loss. Gene's memory will live on thrugh the three of you. He was an exceptional person and will not be forgotten.
You all are in our thoughts and prayers...
Mary Steudle
August 18, 2011
To the Sole and Craig families, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We will never forget the kindness that Gene showed to our son Will and our family when we were a new Coast Guard family in Cape May. Gene was an exemplary role model for our kids and for all of us. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
August 18, 2011
Gene, Gene, the Dancing Machine. I will never forget those long nights at the Phi Delt house. Staying up all night and dancing the night away. To a great guy with a wonderful heart. It was way too early for you to go my friend. The lord took a great person from this earth but you must be needed more up there than down here. We love you and will miss you.
Randy W. Sanborn, Atlanta, Ga., Phi Delta Thetea Brother in the Bond.
August 18, 2011
Chuck and I are so sorry to learn of Gene's passing. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your wonderful sons. Gene was such a great person and we have wonderful memories of him. I can still see that wonderful smile. We love you Betsy.
Love, Deedee & Chuck
Ronnie James
August 17, 2011
My Prayers are with you
I had the honor of serving under Lt Col Sole in Iraq as part of the 6th CAG! I can say he truly is an American Hero and it was an honor to serve under such a great man!
GYSGT James
Danny Whitney
August 17, 2011
Gene,
I met you almost 31 years ago, a place in time that will be with me forever. We had so many great times together, so many lasting memories. I always admired and respected you and I will miss you very much. You were always a very serious man in a very funny way. I
thank you, Betsy, Tyler and Jackson for your service and committment to our country. You will always be my brother, may God bless you.
Mark Lare
August 16, 2011
Dear Betsy & Family, I never had the fortune of meeting Gene, although I have heard so many inspiring stories about him that I can see he was a man of tremendous character and an unparalleled father. His memory and legacy will live on forever. May god bless Gene, and everyone in the Sole and Craig Family.
August 16, 2011
Betsy, I am so sorry. I just found out about Gene. I don't get paper so I did not know. they just told me her at gym and its 1130am. I would have been there for you. Please know that I love you girl. You and the children are still in my prayers. I pray that God will give you peace in this sad time.. Love Dottie Drake
Barbara Cooper
August 15, 2011
You will be missed
Linda Gruchowski
August 15, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I had the pleasure of knowing Gene as a colleague and a friend. Our lives were enhanced because he was a part of it. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Greg Giegucz
August 15, 2011
Dear Betsy, Tyler and Jackson,
I am very sorry. You are in my thoughts.
Matthew Mcgaffney Sr
August 15, 2011
I would be a very proud father if my son could grow up to be a man like Gene Sole. My family was lucky enough to have met and befriend Gene. My son was fortunate enough to have spent significant time with Gene while at Tietleman school. Our community is better for having Gene as one of its members. God bless the entire Sole and Craig families our thoughts are with you
Sue Fredriksen
August 15, 2011
To the Sole ,and Craig families. Please accept my deepest sympathy and love to each and everyone of you. To know each member of these exceptional families is truly a blessing. Gene was a true American hero. I know he has instilled his positive characteristics in his two sons. Although Gene's time on this earth was way too short his many accomplishments leave a legacy that everyone was blessed to know him. I know Betsy and Gene are proud to be the parents of two extraordinary young sons. I will always remember the year that Jackson was West Cape May's Lima Bean King. I pray that the Lord provides the entire family with the peace that passeth all understanding.
Jeff Margolis
August 15, 2011
My sympathies to the entire Sole family.
I had the honor working with Gene many years ago at the Teitelman School. He was a great colleague, an asset to the community and his country
Deb Burow
August 15, 2011
To the Sole family, Gene was an amazing man. He touched so many students lives in very positive ways; for some of them, the only positive father figure they ever saw and experienced. Knowing that Gene was a believer and follower of Jesus Christ makes this parting much sweeter. For him, he is rejoicing in heaven, amazed beyond belief at what he is experiencing. And we celebrate that with him. For those that remain behind it is with a huge hole. My prayer is that Jesus fills up that hole with supernatural comfort for you all.
Maureen Genovese
August 15, 2011
Betsy and Family,
I was so saddened to hear of Gene's passing. He was a true gentleman. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Tyler,Jackson and the entire Craig and Sole families.
JOHN O. GOFF
August 15, 2011
THE PEOPLE OF CALIFORNIA ARE SADDENED TO LEARN OF
THE PASSING OF LT, COLONEL GENE SOLE AFTER FIGHTING
THE MOST COURAGEOUS BATTLE OF HIS LIFE. LT. COL.
SOLE WAS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO WHO SERVED HIS COUNTRY WELL. HE WILL BE MISSED BY HIS FAMILY AND
MANY FRIENDS..OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE SOLE FAMILY. WE SALUTE YOU SIR. GOD BLESS YOU
AND SEMPER FI.
Kim Perez
August 14, 2011
Dear Gene,
It was an honor to know you. Even though your time here was short, your wonderful impact in the world will last forever.
Prayers & love to your family in this difficult time.
Kim & Hernando Perez
William Porter
August 14, 2011
Gene was an inspiration to my father during times when my father was down. I will never forget my Dad talking about Gene, and how he was a role model to his students and my father. His great sense of humor, masking an incredibly strong history and personality, are what stand out. He always struck me as someone who did not need to try and impress people, because he was so impressive. He gave our family, especially my father, so many happy moments beccaus of his great personality. I'm sure he is talking smack with my father. God Bless Gene and his family.
Amy Cloer-Damico
August 14, 2011
Betsy and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Gene was a a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time.
Dave & Terri Cox
August 14, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sole and Craig Families. So sorry for your loss.
August 14, 2011
Greg and I will always rememeber the patience you had will all the scouts and your kids at school. The Kengeters
August 14, 2011
Mr Sole,
Though we had our ups and downs, you were quite the tough cookie! Im sure you fought this battle with dignity and pride in tact... May you rest in peace and may your family recieve the stregth from god that they may need in such a difficult time...
Forever in my heart you'll be!
Your favorite troublemaker!
Col Nick Marano
August 14, 2011
To Betsy, Tyler and Jackson, my deepest condolences during this difficult time. Gene lived an eventful life and made a positive impact on so many lives. "We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for he today that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother." Rest in peace, Marine and Semper Fi!
Kathleen McGaffney
August 14, 2011
To the Sole & Craig families;
Words can not explain the true sorrow I feel. We should all try to live our lives as full as Gene did. Husband, Father, Son, Marine, Teacher, Coach & Friend.
The last time I saw Gene he was dancing with Betsy, and I will keep that memory of him always. Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us carry on. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
David Heritage
August 13, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with the Sole and Craig Families. Gene lived life to the fullest and is a devoted husband, loving father, great friend and above all, a true American. I remember the first time I met Gene as I substitute teached at RMT in '96 and we both found out we were serving in the military, our talks were endless. Gene, you will be truly missed brother but never forgotten. God Bless You Marine, Semper Fi.
Mike & Jeanne Donohue and the Donohue Family
August 13, 2011
We are so sorry for your loss and the loss to our community of such a great man. God Bless you all, you are in our thoughts and prayers
Brian Kopp
August 13, 2011
My Thoughts and Prayers for the Sole and Craig Families. Very very sorry for your loss.
John Stansfield
August 13, 2011
I LOVE YOU MR.SOLE GOD BE WITH YOU
Joelle Cherry
August 13, 2011
My deepest sympathy, thoughts, and prayers are with all of Gene's family and friends. I will never forget how kind and compassionate he was to me and my family. My mother is the late Mrs. Alice Cherry, that is how Gene came into our lives. He was so supportive and his kindness towards my mother and us shall never be forgotten. I feel blessed to have known him, and even though he is not here with us, he will be cherished and honored forever in our hearts.
Jim, Pam & Casey Carothers
August 13, 2011
To the entire Sole Family, Our Heartfelt Sorrow and Sympathy. Gene was a "Real McCoy", the "Real Thing", a "Great American". He will be remembered decades from now, for all he has done. His Greatest accomplishment was raising two Great Sons. May He Rest in Peace.
Erin Robson-Heitzmann
August 13, 2011
RIP Mr. Sole
If it weren't for your encouragement and advice I would have never made through high school. For that I will be forever grateful. You will be missed.
Juanita (Jane) Breland (Wheatley/Schmidt)
August 12, 2011
I am so sorry for this incredible loss. Take comfort in your family and friends. RIP Gene Sole.
Marty Sanders
August 12, 2011
Gene was a wonderful friend and fraternity brother at UF. Alway kind and joyful. While we have been seperated by distance since graduation, you are fondly remembered.
Col John Henry
August 12, 2011
Semper Fi Marine! You have fulfilled the mission of a Leader of Marines by making the difference in the lives of many people. More than you could ever imagine! Your legacy is intact with Betsy, Tyler, and Jackson. Moreover, your Marines and students will carry your leadership style and lessons to the next generation. We'll miss you Gene. Rest in Peace and Semper Fidelis!
Jerry Botto, HM3/USN-R
August 12, 2011
Thoughts and prayers go out to the Sole Family. Your loss is shared by the entire community. After reading some of these notes, it is obvious that Genes' legacy will live on through those whose lives he touched. And it will not be just in Cape May County...his ripple effect is global. God bless you Gene.
Shari Shields
August 12, 2011
R.I.P. LtCol. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your Family!! Thank you for your kindness to our family when my son was over in Iraq!! We got to meet you up in Fort Monmouth on a Marine Family Day!! Very Nice Man!! Thank you for your time in the Marines, Semper Fi!! You will be Truely Missed by many!! With Sincere Sympathy ,Shari Shields and Family
Phyllis Bethel
August 12, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with the Sole family on their loss.
To Mr.Sole, thank you for your service and Semper Fi.
melanie nelson
August 12, 2011
my prayers and thoughts are with ur family threw this hard time may god bless you guys and keep you safe much love
Stacey Gallimore
August 12, 2011
R.I.P. Mr. Sole! You were an amazing person and a true inspiration in my life. You will be greatly missed! <3
Joseph Oswald
August 12, 2011
Mr. Sole was and always will be a bulwark of pride and respect among the lower township community. Since the passing of my father I have not been so upset about a life lost. But the passing of this great man is more than a loss of life, it is a loss of the embodiment of a true America, citizen and neighbor. Everyone, including myself, who learned from him during our years at lower and those who were lucky enough to have him in Teitelman; have a collective sense of sadness for his passing and joy for the knowledge that he is at home with God.
Mike Gibson
August 12, 2011
Dear Family of Gene:
I knew Gene from my days at the University of Florida. Please accept my deepest sympathy. A mutual friend, Dan Whitney, informed me of Gene's passing. I will always remember that "dry" sense of humor (which I loved) and the smile that he constantly wore. God Bless. Mike Gibson, Gainesville Florida.
Theodore Bohn
August 12, 2011
Mr. Sole you were an amazing teacher and an amzing friend. My thoughts go out to you and your family, You have shown the love you have for this country and you school. From a fellow Soldier I thank you and I will always miss you.
Theodore Bohn
Courtney Attenborough
August 12, 2011
Mr.Sole will be truly missed. my familys prayers r with his family and friends
jackie siscone
August 12, 2011
my thoughts and prayers are with betsy, tyler, and jackson. gene was an inspiration to everyone he came across. he was taken from us far too soon, but he left an indelible mark on our community and in our hearts.
betsy, if there is anything i can do for you and the boys, please don't hesitate to ask.
August 12, 2011
Betsy and Family , Our hearts and Prayer go out to you .
Colleen ,Stephanie and Kristin Dugan
Joshua Neider
August 12, 2011
Mr. Sole you were one of best teachers and later in my life the best vice principle may you be at peace i pray for your family
Karyn Essex
August 12, 2011
It was great talking with you...
Dennis McKenna
August 12, 2011
Gene was the greatest. Mind of a scholar, wit of a comedian, stamina of a professional athlete, heart of a warrior, pride of his nation. You will never find a more faithful and devoted husband, father, friend or Marine. Brother, you will be missed.
Sharon Matteucci
August 12, 2011
Our prayers are with you always.
The Matteuccis
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