James M. Cole

1947 - 2021

James M. Cole

Crestline - James Michael Cole, age 73, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at Avita Health Systems in Galion with family by his side.

Born February 6, 1947 to Daniel Lewis and Isabelle Geneva (McKean) Cole in Bucyrus, he was a life- long resident of Crestline. He was a graduate of Colonel Crawford High School and of North Central State College. He was employed as vice president with Sensmeier Oil Company for the majority of his working life and most recently was employed with Glockner Oil Company. He spent his entire life working along- side his family at their family owned Maple Knoll Farms. There they raised grain, pigs, beef and sheep. James was a member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church and was also a member of the Shelby Eagles, Masonic Lodge and a past member of the Colonel Crawford Lions club. He served as a trustee of the Biddle Cemetery for many years.

In his younger years he played guitar with the locally famous band, "The Coachmen", where they even played venues such as Cedar Point. James was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching westerns. He most enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was always there for anyone who needed a hand and his legacy will always be remembered.

He is survived by his three daughters, Heather (Thomas) Shimko of Youngstown, OH, Holly (Thomas) Platfoot of Botkins, OH and Melissa (Kenneth) Miller of Crestline; nine grandchildren Mason Burge, Preston Shimko, Janel Platfoot, Peyton Platfoot, Caden Platfoot, Kylee Bloomfield, Hunter Bloomfield, Rylee Bloomfield and Kenlee Miller; his sister, Priscilla (Thomas) Laughbaum of Crestline; Mother-in-law Eva Mae Cattey of Shelby.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 49 years, Shirley Jean Cole, and his grandson Cole Michael Platfoot.

A private mass will be held Tuesday January 12, 2021 at the Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Shelby with Father Nicholas Cunningham officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital; 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105.

Online condolences can be made at www.barkdullfuneralhome.com.