D. Matthew Cole

1955 - 2024

June 27, 1955 to July 1, 2024 Matt was born and raised in Annapolis, Maryland; the second son of J. Owen Cole (deceased) and Katherine (Davidson) Cole. Matt married Frances Wilson in 1986 and he was a loving and devoted husband for the past 38 years. Matt was the founder and owner of Cole Ventures, Inc., a construction and excavation company, incorporated in 1984. For the past 40 years Cole Ventures has continued to grow and contribute to the community. Matt was recognized and admired by all who knew him as a man of integrity in both business and his personal life. He loved to work and preferred to be in a machine, rather than in the office. He was a Ducks Unlimited Life Sponsor and served on the Maryland Wildlife Advisory Commission. Matt was a visionary and was committed to transforming the physical world around him. This passion began with his Grandfather's (Bill Davidson) WWII surplus bulldozer. By the time Matt graduated from the Severn School in 1973, he knew that he wanted to be outdoors and work with his hands and so began his venture into construction. Matt had a close relationship with his father who spent many a Sunday enjoying lunch with Matt and his crew. Matt frequently said that his business principle of "do what you say you're going to do, and do it right", was inspired by his Dad's profound influence. Matt enjoyed hunting and boating on the Chesapeake Bay, especially in his younger years. He also was well-known for hosting an annual event called the "Cole Ventures Wild Game Feast" for 25 years, which is still fondly remembered by attendees today. Matt and Frances spent weekends and holidays at their farm in Snow Hill, Maryland, where they made many good friends. The farm was his favorite place on earth, where he loved to work on his many projects and to entertain friends and family. Once on the farm, Matt rarely left except to visit his favorite sushi chef/owner Yama at CoCoLo Sushi. Matt had a deep love for his extended family and his work family. He was always willing to help when needed and extend an opportunity to anyone willing to work hard and be reliable. Matt is survived by his wife, Frances, his mother, Kate, his brothers: Mark (Karen), Chap (Pam), Ben, Owen (Joy), his sister, Molly (Chocky), many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and devoted employees. He is predeceased by his Father, Owen, in 2005 and his brother, Jamie, in 2022. A Visitation Remembrance will be held on July 18th, from 4-7:00pm, at the Hyatt Place, Kent Narrows, Md. A private memorial service will take place at a later date.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hole in the Wall Gang at, Hole in the Wall Gang Donations.