Patrick "Pat" Michael Cole, age 72, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, went to be with his Saviour on Thursday, March 12, 2026, after battling many health issues. He was born February 26, 1954, in Muskegon, MI to the late George and Edna (Koller) Cole. Pat married his best friend and childhood sweetheart, Patricia Lianne Mann, on July 23, 1976, at Woodward Avenue Baptist Church. He worked at Di-Anodic Finishing Company for over 43 years until his retirement in 2019.
In Pat's younger years he enjoyed golfing, playing softball, and bowling, but above all else, he loved spending time with his family. He was a very proud grandpa and cherished the moments spent with his kids and grandchildren throughout the years. Pat was also a faithful and loyal servant of the Lord and gladly volunteered in various ways over the many years at his church. Pat may have tried to act like he was grumpy at times, however, that was just a front for his big soft heart.
Survivors include his wife of nearly 50 years, Patty; children, Patrick (Michelle) Cole Jr., Kristen (Phil Van Kuiken) Cole, Pauline Hung, Casey (Kristin) Cole, and Josh (Britney) Cole; grandchildren, Alex, Molly, Megan, Macey, Nalla, Garrett, and Jay; great-grandson, Malakai; brother, Richard (Laura) Cole; sisters, Patricia (Dave) Wise and Beverly Cole (Dan); sisters-in-law, Barb (Roy) Hudson, Sandy Tripp (Herb), and Carol (Mark) Condon; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother; sister, Linda (Richard) Bartrum; brother, James Cole; and brothers-in-law, Lionel Mann and Ron Tripp.
Visitation will take place on Monday, March 16, 2026, from 10:00am until 11:00am, at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1000 Aberdeen Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, with the funeral service at 11:00am with Pastor PJ Pallini officiating. Pat will be laid to rest at Chapel Hill Memorial Cemetery.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Atrio Home Care and Faith Hospice for their support, care, and compassion, which helped fulfill his wish of remaining at home and with his family.

Published by Grand Rapids Press on Mar. 13, 2026.