Dennis Howard Cole

Dennis Howard Cole, age 82, passed away on December 28, 2025. He was born on February 9, 1943, in Sebastian, Texas, to Jesse Howard and Dorris Marie Chandler Cole, to whom he was a devoted and loving son.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of fifty-five years, Susan Brooks Cole, whom he affectionately called "Sue Lee." Their love story began with a blind date and grew into sixty inseparable years of partnership, devotion, and unwavering commitment. Dennis adored Susan deeply-she was his greatest pride, his constant companion, and the love of his life. He spoke of her often and fondly, proudly referring to her as his "Aussie" wife, and their bond was evident to all who knew them.

He is also survived by his son, Shannon Cole, and daughter-in-law Kristy; his daughter, Shay Denise Nelson, and son-in-law Rodney Nelson; and his three treasured grandchildren; granddaughter Kalina Cole and grandsons Gunnar and Camden Nelson. Dennis was a devoted and ever-present grandfather who never missed a single event, game, performance, or milestone in his grandchildren's lives. He showed up, always, offering quiet encouragement, steady support, and unmistakable pride.

A proud veteran, Dennis served in the United States Army and was a member of America's Last Patrol.

He dedicated fifty-two years of his professional life as a Service Manager with John Deere, a career that reflected his strong work ethic, reliability, and integrity.

Beyond his career, Dennis was a man of many talents and quiet passions. He was an accomplished oil artist, an avid gardener, and a lifelong reader. Later in life, he discovered knife making and became well known for his craftsmanship, creating distinctive knives from rare and unique materials, including mastodon and mammoth tusks.

Dennis represented the very epitome of a gentleman. He was known to stop and "talk shop" with nearly everyone he met, leaving behind wonderful stories, some involving encounters with panthers on local ranches, and lasting impressions of warmth and sincerity.

The anchor of his family, Dennis was the calm voice of reason, a steady presence, and a source of quiet strength. A devoted Christian, his faith guided his life and the love he shared so generously with others.

Dennis will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday January 03, 2025 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.