Robert Joseph Cole

Robert Joseph Cole obituary

Robert Joseph Cole

Robert Cole Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lee-Ellena Funeral Home on Sep. 29, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Survived by his wife, Karen, sons Brian (Raquel) and Adam (Lindsay), grandchildren Carson, Keegan, Ezekiel, Cruz, Madison, and Sheridan, sister Beverly LaLone (Frank), and brothers Ronald Cole (Judith) and Donald Cole (Linda)

Bob began his journey on November 25, 1947, in Flint, Michigan. He graduated from Birch Run High School in 1966. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force Air Force in 1969 serving 4 years as a communication specialist stationed in Taiwan and completing his tour of duty at Selfridge Air Force Base. He was employed for several years at the U.S. Tank Plant/General Dynamics as a Plant Engineer. He left General Dynamics in 1984 and began his own business, which developed into commercial real estate and property management. He was active and engaged until the end. He didn't believe in the word "retirement".

Bob met his wife, Karen, at a church service at Warren Woods Church in 1974. They married on August 2, 1975 and two sons were added (Brian-1977) and (Adam-1980). They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on August 2,2025.

His greatest joy was his love for Jesus and his family. He was such a wonderful guy with a unique blend of humor and wit that will never be forgotten. His wife, sons, daughters-in-law and 6 grandchildren brought unending happiness over the years. A life full of blessings, but taken far too soon. He will be greatly missed.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

People and places connected with Robert
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Robert Cole's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Robert Cole's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?