Richard H. Cole

December 25, 2021. Beloved husband of 69 years to Margery (Yaeger) Cole; cherished dad of David (Laura), Kevin (Mary) Cole, Marsha (Jeffrey) Nelson, Daniel Cole and the late JoAnn Hellert. Devoted grandpa of 14 and great-grandpa of four; loving brother of Sally (Francis) Christiano & father-in-law of Donald Hellert. Family will be present on Monday from 3-7 PM, at the PERNA, DENGLER, ROBERTS FUNERAL HOME, 1671 Maple Road. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at St. Benedict’s Church, on Tuesday, at 9 AM, followed by entombment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. If desired, donations in Richard’s name may be made to Mercy Flight of WNY Inc., or

Red Blazer Men's Chorus

A message from the family;

We honor and celebrate Richard (Dick), a life led by Faith, Family, Friends, Country and Song. Dick was a dedicated son, brother to Sally, devoted husband of 69 years to Marge, the loving father of David, Kevin, Marsha, Daniel and JoAnn, and beloved “Grampa” of 14 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for his friends and wore his heart on his sleeve. He served God with his 60+ years as a member of St. Benedict’s parish. Dick was a past president of the Holy Name Society, member of the International Order of Alhambra, and even painted the inside of the church.

He served his country as a Medic in the US National Guard and was always sporting some article of clothing with an American Flag on it.

He delighted in bringing joy to others through song. A member of the Amherst Male Glee Club (Red Blazer Men’s Chorus) for 58 years, Dick formed many friendships that continue with our family today. Singing with the Good News Minstrels in his golden years Dad said was “to help the old folks”.

Dick spent a life of service in making the world a more beautiful place, one paint brush stroke at a time. First in business with his father and then for the VA Hospital, he even incorporated volunteerism with work. Dick was honored with The Chapel of Four Chaplains Legion of Honor Award in recognition of service to all people regardless of race or faith.

Dick enjoyed bowling, camping, horseshoes and any adventure with his best friend Herb.

As we leave here today, go forth in song and carry on Dick’s memory by loving everyone you meet.

Immediately following the funeral mass at St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church, Dick will be interred at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.