Cola Rienzi Morris Jr.

peacefully from his home into the arms of Jesus his Savior after a courageously fought battle with Parkinson's disease on

Tuesday, October 13, 2015.He was eighty-seven years old and had suffered from Parkinson's disease for fifteen years.

Cola was born February 25, 1928 to Cola Rienzi Morris Sr. and Bessie Perl Morris in Raleigh, North Carolina. He

graduated in 1946 from Needham B. Broughton High School, Raleigh, North Carolina and, in 1950, from North Carolina

State with a degree in Industrial Engineering. While at North Carolina State, Cola was also on the NC State Swim Team

earning wins and recognition as a competitive swimmer in the freestyle event.

In January of 1952 he married his beautiful bride, Rebecca Ann Rogers. They were devoted to each other for sixty-three

years with Rebecca faithfully at his side until his death. Cola was commissioned a second lieutenant through ROTC and called to active duty on March, 1952. He would go on to serve his country for thirty-three years retiring in 1982 at the rank of full Colonel with his final assignment as the Deputy Chief of Staff/Personnel, Alaskan Air Command, Elmendorf A.F.B. Anchorage, Alaska. He received many honors and distinctions including: The Legion of Merit with two oakleaf clusters; The Meritorious Service Medal; The Joint Service Commendation Medal; The Air Force Commendation Medal with one oakleaf cluster; The China Service Medal; The Republic of Vietnam Air Service Medal, Honor Class; and The

Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

While stationed at the United States Air Force Academy (1967-1971) Cola and Rebecca fell in love with Colorado and

purchased property at Red Rocks Ranch, Monument, Colorado to build on upon retirement. In 1983, their home was

built and they lived there until moving to the Sun Mesa Townhomes in 1997.

Cola loved the years he was able to attend the USAFA football games and held the same seats since the 1960's

cherishing the friendship of the fans around him until he had to give up those seats and watch his team from afar. In

retirement Cola gave back to the community by serving on numerous boards such as, the Architectural Review Board at

Red Rocks Ranch, the Trilakes Fire Board, and the Church at Woodmoor Facilities Board.

Cola thrived being outdoors and loved to hike, bike, and downhill ski until he was no longer able to as the devastations

of Parkinson took over. But, even then, Cola loved being out and about as he circled the neighborhood in his wheelchair

greeting all who passed by.

Cola loved people and people loved him. He had a wonderful wit and was known as "king of the one-liners." He had a keen ability to utilize people's skills and talents for good. Most importantly, he knew Jesus as his personal Savior.

Cola is survived by his wife, daughter Deborah (husband Mark), son Rob (wife Marilyn), and daughter Tamara (husband

Philip). In addition, he leaves behind five grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to gratefully and humbly express loving appreciation for all the years of professionalism and sensitive

care given to our husband and father by ResCare of Colorado Springs. We love you! And for the end of life care so

wonderfully and carefully provided by Pikes Peak Hospice.

Thank you so much!

Cola's Memorial Service will be held at Church at Woodmoor on Thursday, November 12, 2015 at 1:30 pm

Memorial contributions may be made to: Church at Woodmoor - 18125 Furrow Rd., Monument, Colorado, 80132. All gifts in Cola Morris' name will be used to enhance and improve the Memorial Garden.

Arrangements under the direction of Swan-Law Funeral Directors, Colorado Springs, CO.