Joseph Lloyd Cole

Joseph L. (Joey) Cole 67 of Placida, FL passed away Monday February 6, 2012 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 14, 1944 in Arcadia, FL to Ralph M. Cole Sr. and Ethel Cole.

Joseph, better known as Joey to everyone that knew him, proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he used his welding skills to repair ships and helicopters on base. At the end of his tour, Joey returned to Placida to take up where he left off; in the field of Commercial Fishing. Fishing was not just a way to make a living for Joey, it was who he was. Fishing was instilled in Joey at a very young age by his Father and the generations of fisherman that preceded him. Joey was very proud of his heritage and anyone that knew him knew all about this way of life through the many stories he was always willing to share and the photo collection proudly displayed in his home. Joey by far was happiest when he was on the water pursuing the big catch. Through the years fishing included, stone crabbing locally and in the Florida Keys, shrimping, a fiddler bait business that provided fiddler crabs to New York, but his passion was mullet fishing.

Joey also had a love for traveling with his wife Martha and enjoyed hunting, but the most important aspect in life to Joey was his family. He was so proud of his daughter Bobbie Jo Weese and his four grandchildren. His only grandson (Joseph) is currently enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. His three granddaughters all unique meant the world to him. His two great grandsons will learn about him thru the eyes of all left behind. He will be sorely missed.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife of 43 years Martha Cole; one daughter Bobbie Jo (Jerry) Weese; four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Joan Hayes, Ralph Martin Cole Jr. and Ronald L. Cole.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday February 10, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Suncoast Worship Center in Englewood. Arrangements are by Lemon Bay Funeral home and Cremation Services.

Memorial Donations can be made to Tidewell Hospice. You may express your condolences to the family at lemonbayfh.com