Rick K. Cole

Rick K. Cole, 64, of New Philadelphia, went home to be with Jesus on February 24, 2026.

In July 2016, Rick was diagnosed with liposarcoma, and through God’s grace, he and his family were given the gift of nearly ten more years together. During that time, he endured six major surgeries and navigated numerous hurdles with remarkable mental toughness, unwavering faith, and steadfast courage.

Born in Akron on January 22, 1962, he was the son of the late Donald C. and Dara Lee (Whisman) Cole.

Rick graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy, faithfully serving others for 39 years as a licensed physical therapist. Over the course of his career, he cared for thousands of patients with extraordinary kindness and compassion. For ten years, he worked at, and later owned, a physical therapy clinic in Opelika, Alabama. He continued his ministry of healing at Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital, where—prior to 1999—therapy services were provided in the hospital’s basement. Alongside senior leadership, Rick was instrumental in the visionary effort to establish the Healthplex, which opened in 1999. He was the director, guiding its growth and development for many years. What began as a bold step forward has since flourished beyond what he could have imagined, as the Healthplex is now the third-largest provider of therapy services within the Cleveland Clinic enterprise—an enduring testament to his leadership and vision.

Rick was known as a kind, humble, godly, and loving man who always assumed the best in others. He never spoke a bad word about anyone. At the Healthplex, he was deeply respected and loved by his staff. When mistakes were made, he would gently and kindly redirect rather than criticize. One caregiver shared, “I never wanted to disappoint him.” His leadership was marked by grace, patience, and encouragement.

In college at Cleveland State University, Rick and his twin brother, Randy, were powerhouse wrestlers, earning full-ride scholarships. Wrestling remained close to his heart throughout his life. When his sons developed an interest in the sport, Rick became their greatest supporter and coach, investing wholeheartedly in their wrestling careers. He also loved hunting and competitive shooting with his family and friends, as well as treasured family vacations.

In 1986, Rick married the love of his life, the former Sherry L. Adams, in the Canton Baptist Temple. They first met at the church after college, and from that moment forward, Rick was completely in awe of Sherry. If there ever was a man in love with his wife, it was Rick with Sherry. He loved everything about her and often spoke at length about how perfectly she complemented him—how she was absolutely fantastic in areas where he was not strong. Together they built a Christ-centered marriage and family, nurturing their faith at First Baptist Church.

Rick was tremendously proud of his sons: Austin (Kristin) Cole of Bolivar; Parker (Emily) Cole of New Albany; and Hudson (Jordyn) Cole of Harmony, Pennsylvania. He was a devoted and proud grandfather to Ryker, Finley, Roman, and Kennedy Cole. He treasured his role as “Papa” and was the epitome of a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Many individuals also considered Rick a father-figure and mentor, drawn to his steady wisdom, strength, and deep care for others.

Rick is also survived and cherished by his parents-in-law, William and Elizabeth Adams of East Sparta; his twin brother, Randy (Darlene) Cole of Willoughby Hills; his sister, Carla (Patrick) Cloonan of Kirtland, Ohio; and his brother, Lee (Sherri) Cole of Alliance, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

Above all, Rick will be remembered for his unwavering faith, servant’s heart, compassionate spirit, and deep, abiding love for his family. His legacy of kindness, integrity, mentorship, and Christ-centered living will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. He lived with a deep desire that everyone would come to know the Lord Jesus as their Savior and experience His love. Those that love him have peace knowing he is now fully healed and restored in the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. Psalm 40:1-3

Visitation will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 4 to 7 p.m. A service celebrating Rick’s life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 beginning at 11 a.m. in the First Baptist Church at New Philadelphia. Burial will follow in Schoenbrunn Meadows at New Philadelphia.

Memorial contributions in Rick’s memory may be directed to the First Baptist Church, 878 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.