John Michael Cole

John Michael Cole, 88, of McLean, Virginia, formerly of Manahawkin, NJ; Freehold, NJ; and Newark, NJ; passed away on March 29, 2021. Beloved husband of Katheryn Cole for 51 years, until her passing in 2016. Father of Thomas, Brian, Christopher and Stephen. John was born in Newark, NJ on September 25, 1932 and married Katheryn O’Keefe on October 30, 1965 at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in River Edge, NJ. He joined the Navy after high school and served as part of the submarine force. Upon leaving the Navy he graduated Newark College of Engineering as an electrical engineer. He worked for NASA and Communications Electronic Command at Fort Monmouth, NJ. He had a passion for his family and very much enjoyed family gatherings. He is survived by his four sons: Thomas (Marjorie); Brian (Jasmin); Christopher (Tracy); and Stephen (Cristine). John is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Suzanne, Gabrielle, Owen, Madeleine, Amelia, Ryan, Abigail, Sean, Kaitlyn, Jack, and Luke. John is predeceased by his wife Katheryn; an infant son, John Michael; his brothers William, Thomas Joseph, and George; and his sister Marie. Funeral arrangements are with Murphy Funeral Home in Falls Church, VA, with viewings on Monday, April 5th. A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, April 6th at St. James Catholic Church in Falls Church, VA, with interment at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.