Raymond Cole

Raymond D. Cole, age 63, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, January 4, 2014. He was born April 12, 1950 in Mansfield. Raymond retired from Shiloh Industries then worked at Wal-Mart on O’Possum Run Road. Prior to starting at Shiloh Industries, he worked 25 years in construction.

Raymond was an honorably discharged Vietnam War veteran, serving in the U.S. Army and earning numerous meritorious service medals including a Purple Heart, a Combat Infantry Badge, Gallantry Cross with 4 bronze stars, Vietnam Service Medal and National Defense Service Medal.

After his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. His favorite pastimes were camping and traveling in his Winnebago and working on cars in his “new” garage.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Pamela I. Grooms Cole, whom he married on June 9, 1980; two children, Arlana L. “Beaner” Strickland and Drew Cole; five grandchildren, Opal and Joey Strickland, Emilliey, Daniel and Braylen Cole, all of Mansfield; his mother, Omega Porter Cole; four brothers and sisters, Barb (Doug Sr.) Sands, Edwin (Patti) Cole, Linda (Richard) King and Michael (Susan) Cole; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Raymond was preceded in death by his father, Willard B. Cole; brother, Donald Cole; and grandparents, William and Virgie Cole from Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hanna Rd. Church of God, 536 Hanna Rd., Mansfield, OH 44906.