Richard O. Cole

Richard Ovell Cole, age 76 was called to rest on Wednesday, June 12, 2019. He was the son of the late Memphis and Minnie Cole (Brown) of Gulfport, Mississippi where he was born, then later moved to Grand Rapids with his family at a young age. Richard was a man of faith, who believed in the Lord. He was a graduate of South High School where he played sports. He worked in production for over 20 years at General Motors. Richard was a family man, affectionately known as "Pops" Big Daddy" Big Pop" and "Paw Paw." He loved his children beyond measure, including his three non-biological children that he raised as his very own. His grand-children were the light of his world and that was evident every time they were in his presence, his eyes would get so big as if he won a prize.

Richard's favorite pass-time was golfing, "going to hit 'em" as he would often say. He spent endless hours and days throughout his life practicing the sport of golf, eventually mastering the game and sharing that talent with younger generations. Other hobbies were playing basketball in which he played and claimed victory in many "Gus Macker" tournaments over the years.

 Richard was passionate about supporting his children/grandchildren's sporting events; you could count on him to be in the stands cheering them on. He loved watching sports on television especially "The Masters" during the "PGA Tour Season" and "Michigan State!"  He enjoyed family time and taking his family on vacations in previous years. He also LOVED to cook, especially on the grill and he took pride in his special bbq sauce.

Richard had a heart of gold! He was a "giver!" He often took time out his day to encourage the youth in his neighborhood and he always reminded us to "do the right thing!" He exemplified what it means to "be the village." His laughter is unforgettable and will ring throughout our lives for years to come.

Richard leaves to cherish his memory, loving children Steven (Marla) Cole, Marquesia Cole, Misty Pruitt, Tony Pruitt, Tracy (Herman) Williams,  all of Grand Rapids, MI; five grand children who he adored, Steven Cole II of Kalamazoo, MI, Devan Cole of Washington D.C. and Aaron Cole, Keeshawn Holman, and Alauni Polk, all of Grand Rapids, MI; one sister, Pearl (Eli) Campbell of Las Vegas, NV and one brother, Melvin Cole of Grand Rapids, MI and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held in his honor on June 28, 2019 between the hours of 2-6pm @ The Indian Trails Golf Course Clubhouse 2776 Kalamazoo, Ave Grand Rapids, MI 49507.