Gene Porter Cole Sr.

Gene Porter Cole, Sr., 91, of Charlotte, passed away on January 14, 2013 at his home. He was born in Charlotte on June 7, 1921, a son of the late John and Susan (Snyder) Cole, where he grew up on North Pine Street in First Ward, graduating from Central High School. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Louise (Cousar) Cole, and his brothers, John, James Myers, Ben, and Collier.

He is survived by his three children and their spouses: Gene and Susan Cole, Margaret and Jim Atherton, and Scott and Susan Cole; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Mr. Cole served in the Navy in the South Pacific during WWII, interrupting his college career at Wake Forest University, where, following the war, he earned a B.A. and subsequently passed the North Carolina Bar. His entire career was devoted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation in various cities, including Washington, D.C., New York, Indianapolis, and Charlotte, where he retired from service in the late 1970’s. Whether remaining active at cardiac rehab or as a member of Morningside Lutheran Church, Mr. Cole endeavored to learn everyone’s name and family history, often drawing a connection from the past, as he was well acquainted with both Charlotte history, and an exceptional number of fellow native Charlotteans.

The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. on Friday evening at Harry & Bryant, 500 Providence Rd., Charlotte. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. in the Harry & Bryant Chapel. Entombment will follow at Sharon Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.