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Jonathan Cole Obituary
Jonathan Edward Cole
Sept. 22, 1942 - May 20, 203
KNOXVILLE, TN - Jonathan Edward Cole, age 80 passed away Saturday, May 20, 2023 at his home in Knoxville, TN.
He was born in Kenosha, WI on September 22, 1942 to David and Lucile (Luitze) Cole.
Survived by his loving wife, Karen: sons: Todd Cole (Melanie), Brian Cole (Rebecca), Brad Cole (Kim Freitag); daughters Yvette Cole, Kira Cole (James Fonte); nine grandchildren; brothers: George Cole, David Plew (Lillian), Robert Plew (Cindy); along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Jonathan was known as a kindhearted, generous man with a great sense of humor. He served proudly in the United States Marine Corps 3rd Battalion 376 San Diego, CA.
Among his many accomplishments in his career, he was a member of various local unions and Vice President of Local Union 2337 United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. He retired from his extensive career at Chrysler as the Vice President of UAW Local 72.
Jon was an avid firearms enthusiast and was a lifetime member of the NRA. Throughout his lifetime he was quite fond of automobile racing. Many weekends throughout the 60's and 70's he could be found at Union Grove Dragstrip.
Though he permanently moved to Tennessee in 2012, he always found time to return to Kenosha frequently to catch up with his beloved family and friends often gathering for a meal at various local restaurants.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Barry Lake.
Jonathan's immediate family will privately celebrate his life at a later date in time.
Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Cole
Debbie (Capponi) Teodorescu
May 19, 2025
One kind gesture I will never forget. We (many family members) were at Stone Creek Grill, in Winthrop Harbor. When we were all leaving, Jonathan noticed that I had a low tire and insisted on following me to a gas station so he could fill it to ensure my safe return home. He was caring, loving and I truly wished I could have seen him one more time. That was the last hug and kiss I received from my cousin, before I moved out of the country.
Michael Palmer
July 1, 2023
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Jon. I worked with him at Chrysler and knew the Luitze family well as I attended Lakeshore Tabernacle. I will be praying for the family.
Mike Palmer
Brad Cole
June 18, 2023
Happy Father's Day, Dad. I miss you
Debbie (Capponi) Teodorescu
June 2, 2023
How sad to hear about my cousin's passing. After living out of the country for many years, I have come back to Kenosha just to find how many of my dear family has passed since being away. Wish I could reconnect with those left.
Frank Mazzei
May 31, 2023
My prayers and condolences to family friends.
Debbie Laurence
May 30, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
I knew John from Chrysler.
Yolanda Adams
May 28, 2023
Our condolences to Karen and Jon's children. He was a good friend for many years. We knew him from his years of working in shipping & receiving at John Mansville. Also, his Honda motorcycle days. By James (Lamar) & Yolanda Adams of Kenosha.
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