Terry Vern Cole

Terry Vern Cole, age 84, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Immanuel St. Joseph’s Hospital in Mankato, Minnesota. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at the First Lutheran Church of Albert Lea at 11AM with visitation to be held for an hour prior to the service. Burial will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery following the service.

Born on August 27, 1940, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, Terry was the only child of Vern and Ollie (Means) Cole. He was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1958. Although he was a single child, he grew up alongside his cousins and treated them like siblings.

On August 31, 1959, Terry married the love of his life, Nina Del Fredrickson, at Round Prairie Lutheran Church. Together, they built a family rooted in faith, love, and laughter.

Following high school, Terry pursued service to others through the U.S. Navy, where he graduated from the Navy’s Hospital School in San Diego. He was assigned to the staff at Balboa Hospital in San Diego and proudly served as an HMSN, USN. Terry also served six months with the U.S. Marines as a corpsman (medical technician), offering care and compassion to those in need. After beginning their family, Terry and Nina returned to Albert Lea, where they raised their children and built lifelong friendships.

Terry had a lifelong passion for music, especially rock-and-roll. As a childhood friend of Eddie Cochran, he shared a deep appreciation for records and the joy of song. He was also an avid Minnesota Vikings and Twins fan, enjoyed golfing and bowling, and was a proud member of the American Legion.

Terry’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his wife of nearly 66 years, Nina; children William (Lois) Cole, Steve (Jenn) Cole, Lisa (Greg) Stegenga, and Jenn (Rick) Schwab; 16 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. His family will forever cherish his warm hugs and his famous “squeaky kisses,” treasured trademarks of his love.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Ollie Cole.

Terry’s legacy of kindness, devotion, and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Peace and Power or the charity of your choice.