George Cole

George W. Cole Jr was born in Morenci, Arizona on January 23, 1950 to George Sr, a Presbyterian minister, and Lois, a social worker. In 1960 his family moved to California, eventually settling in Montebello where he enjoyed football and wrestling. He graduated from Montebello High in 1968 and began his lifelong involvement in politics when he became a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War and joined NewsReel, an anti-war group that produced and imported political films. In May of 1971 George met the love of his life, Judi, and they were married at the Los Angeles CourtHouse on October 9, 1971.

In 1974, George began work at Bethlehem Steel mill in Vernon, CA. where his hard work and strong character led him to become a millwright and respected union leader. When the plant closed in 1980 he organized a food bank for the laid off steelworkers at the local union hall, which rapidly expanded to serve the entire community. During this time, a group of laid off union members wrote a play called Lady Beth, an homage to the steelworkers and the aftermath of the mill closure. George helped the group form the Steelworkers Theater Project and, with the assistance of his friend Bruce Springsteen, they produced the play nationwide.

In 1984 George was elected to Bell City Council for the first time and eventually served the city for over 25 years as councilman and mayor. He was heavily involved with community outreach, interaction, and enhancement while on the council. His extensive efforts resulted in the redistricting of area schools and empowerment of parents that was recognized by the state. During his time with the City of Bell, he also worked his way up to President of the Steelworkers Oldtimers Foundation where his passion was for helping seniors citizens in the community. He advocated for senior housing rights, provided hot lunches and meals on wheels, and coordinated the dial-a-ride program. Under his guidance these programs grew to serve many southeast cities and citizens of all ages.

George retired from Bell City Council in 2008 and from the Oldtimers Foundation in 2010. In retirement, he enjoyed visiting with friends and family, and traveling between his home in Walnut Park and house in Cambria on the Central Coast of California. George was fascinated by California landscapes, clouds and sunsets, he was a dog lover, he was an avid burger connoisseur, and he took many pictures of them all.

He was a well read, self taught, articulate, charismatic leader, community organizer, and loyal friend. He was a loving husband, a caring father, and a generous human being who never hesitated to help anyone in need at any time. To know George Cole was to love him and his friendship was unconditional. He was knowledgeable, yet humble, and unique in the way he genuinely listened and cared for everyone he met. He both inspired and was inspired by the people around him. He will truly be missed.

George is survived by Judith, his loving wife of 51 years, his younger sisters Cathy and Jackie, and his two sons, Michael and Jason.