Caroline G. Cole

Caroline G. Cole, born September 7, 1931 passed peacefully from this life July 8, 2011 in Olympia; resting at last from the burden of illnesses shouldered for so long in quiet determination. Her wish to live independently at home with her husband Robert was realized for all but the last few weeks of her life.

An only child, Caroline spent her early childhood living in Seattle; Glendale, CA; Ogden, UT and finally Spokane where she attended high school and Whitworth University, and met her future husband, Robert. After marrying, she and Robert moved to Pullman where she worked in the WSU printing office under the directorship of Henry Grosshans who inspired her thoughtfulness, intellectual curiosity and love of reading. Following Robert's graduation from WSU, Caroline and Robert moved to Olympia in 1959 where they lived for all but one of the next 52 years and raised their three sons.

Caroline was passionate about civic participation and was active in a wide range of organizations including the local chapter of the Orthopedic Society, PTAs and district committees in North Thurston School District, her local political precinct, and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. For 20 years she worked in an Olympia area State Farm Insurance office. Caroline was known to many throughout the Greater Olympia area for her tole painting classes that she taught throughout the 1970s. Her work in tole and other decorative painting led to her interest in collecting and renovating antique furniture and utensils.

She will be remembered for her determination, strength of presence undiminished by illness or age, her long-standing commitment to social justice, and the wisdom and love she shared with those near to her. She is survived by her husband Robert and their sons Brian (Long Beach, CA), Bruce (Snohomish) and David (Portland) and five grandchildren.

Her family suggests donations be made to the American Diabetes Association .