Fred Cole

Fred Cole, 80, of New London, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 29, 2025, at Admiral's Pointe in Huron. He was born on December 4, 1944, in New London, to the late Allie (Wireman) and Herman Cole. Fred grew up in New London and attended New London Schools. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. After his service, he worked as a machinist at Akron Standard/Greenwich Mold, retiring in 2014. A man of strong faith, he was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a greeter for many years. Fred loved God and his family above all else. His gentle soul, friendly spirit, and most of all his passion to lead others to Christ will be sadly missed. He had a wide range of other interests, whether it was hunting, keeping a perfect garden, working on cars, small engines, technology, or enjoying a good western movie. He particularly loved spending an evening listening to country or bluegrass music with his wife.

Fred will be deeply missed by his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Velma (McKinney) Cole, whom he married on October 23, 1965; his son, Rick (Stephanie) Cole of Ontario, OH; grandchildren, Max (Jaymie) Hilbruner, Ryan Hilbruner, Eric (Jessie) Cole, Angela (Randy) Meja, Alexis (Tyler) Gates, Spencer Cole, and Colin Cole; several great-grandchildren; and sisters, Irene Farmer and Jan Johnston.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents; his son, Daniel "Dan" Cole; and his brothers, Ronald, Arion, Spencer, and Edward Cole.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 4–6 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 6 p.m., at First Baptist Church, 432 Park Ave., New London, Ohio 44851.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church. The staff of Eastman Funeral Home, 200 W. Main Street, New London, Ohio 44851, assisted the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.eastmanfuneralhome.com.