Donald Milton "Donnie" Cole, Jr.

1956 - 2023

Elbert, Colorado lost a true pioneer and steward of its land as Donald Milton Cole, Jr. unexpectedly passed away at his home at the age of 67. Known to most as Donnie, he was a business owner, cattle rancher, cowboy, and the proud caretaker of the family homestead ranch, marking the fifth generation of Coles to call Elbert home.

Donnie was born in Colorado Springs to Donald & Louise Cole. He grew up on the west side of Colorado Springs and graduated from Coronado High School in 1974. That year he returned home to the family ranch in Elbert, his first love. From that day on Donnie's love for Elbert stayed strong and unwavering. His son Casey referred to his love as "he bled Elbert." He opened a tree spade business C Lazy T Tree that he owned and operated for 40+ years. He rodeoed, played on the Town Team Basketball and Softball teams; coached pee-wee basketball and football, active with his kids sports and 4-H and a proud Elbert School supporter long after his kids left there.

Alongside his wife, Kim, who shared a lifetime of adventures by his side in the short time they were together, Donnie leaves behind a rich tapestry of family. His son Cy, son Casey, and Casey's wife Jessica, along with their three sons, Logan, Connor, and Hudson, all bear the imprints of his love, hard work, stubbornness, and mischievousness. Donnie is also survived by his daughter Grace and her husband Josh, as well as his son Grant. He also leaves behind a close-knit family that he enjoyed spending time with, including his brother Greg and his wife Julie, nieces Maddy, EmaLee and her husband Elijah. His sister Natalie and nieces Anna and Rachel. His "like a daughter" niece Kristin and her husband Matt, along with great nieces Bailey, Annabelle, and Addie. Brother-in-Laws Kendall Wills, his wife Sarah and family; Brian Wills, his wife Patti and family. The family extended beyond blood, including "like a son" Luiz Vicentini Neto, his wife Patricia, son Ivo and daughter Manuela. As well as a dozen more he embraced as honorary sons.

Memorial and reception will be held on Sunday November 19, 2023 at 1:00pm at the Russell Gates Mercantile Hall in Elbert In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in the name of Donnie Cole to the Elbert Christian Church Elevator Fund, 23894 Broadway St, PO Box 37, Elbert, CO 80106.