James R. Cole, 88, of Marysville, died Monday afternoon, March 19, 2018, at Memorial Hospital surrounded by his loving family following an extended illness.
He was retired from Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company and the Kroger Company. He enjoyed many sporting event activities, including bowling, fishing, hunting, following The Ohio States Football and basketball activities and NASCAR.
He was a hardworking and loving father and “pappy.” With his family being a priority in life, he made his house a home by being devotedly involved in raising his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was born Aug. 26, 1929, in Logan County, to the late Richard C. and Eula M. Spain Cole. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, the former Ruth E. Pitt, who died Feb. 20, 2016.
He is survived by his children, Tammy (Scott) Ericksen, April Reck, Dana (Randy) Gilliland, Rick Cole and James Cole; 13 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren.
A gathering of family and friends to celebrate his life will be held Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Marysville Moose Lodge. A burial will follow at Middleburg Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Union County Mobile Meals Program, the Union County Humane Society or the American Heart Association in care of Ingram Funeral Home who is completing arrangements.
Condolences may be expressed at www.ingramfuneralservice.com.