Robert Leslie Cole

It is with great sadness the family of Robert Leslie Cole (Bob) of Halifax announce his peaceful passing at the Halifax Infirmary, June 11th with his family at his side.

Born in Armdale in 1922, he was the son of the late William and Sadie Cole. At the age of 17 ½ Bob enlisted with The Princess Louise Fusiliers and was trained as a machine gunner and driver.

He fought in Italy at Cassino, Ortona and Revenna and became a Prisoner of War when, reaching their objective under heavy fire, his group found themselves surrounded and out of ammunition. After being shipped in a German railway boxcar through the severe winter months of 1944, Bob became a POW at the infamous Stalag 7B.

After liberation, Bob regained his health in England and returned home to Halifax. He then operated service stations, one of which was billed as the “Biggest Littlest Station in the Maritimes”.

Robert (Bob) was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Rita Catherine and is survived by daughters, Pamela (Merv Russell) and Carmen; son, Dallas (Lynn Zinck) of Halifax.

He is predeceased by brothers, Ronald and Gerald; sister, Joanie Purcell (Cyril) while survived by Gloria Sullivan (Ina) of Halifax and Margorie Marshall of Bridgetown.

As past Chairman of The Poppy Fund and in lieu of flowers donations may be sent to The Poppy Fund Fairview Branch 142. A celebration of life will be held at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax on Thursday, June 16 at 2:00 PM.