Helen Josephine Cole

Helen Josephine (Lucke) Cole, age 99 of Grand Rapids, passed away on September 2, 2021 at Vista Springs Northview Woods. Jo, as she was always known, was born in Pinconning to Archie & Lucinda (Gittins) Lucke.

In 1941, Jo was united in marriage to the love of her life, Gaylord Dean Cole. Together, they raised four children with Jo managing the home while Gaylord supported the family working for GM. They celebrated 56 years marriage before Gaylord passed away in 1997.

Jo loved to have fun and enjoyed her time she spent in the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority Chapter Laur Beta Beta. Her involvement allowed her to create many friendships over the years. She was a talented artist and used her skills to paint and make jewelry.

For many years, Jo and Gaylord traveled around the country in their motorhome. They spent their winters in the warmth of Mesa, AZ. During the summer months, the couple would be found on their boat they kept on the water in Grand Haven.

Jo was a devoted to her family. She was especially close to her only sister, Frieda and delighted in be GG to her great-grandchildren. Her infectious smile, wonderful sense of humor and caring ways will be missed by everyone.

Jo is survived by her children: Gay Ann (Chuck) Liebert of Portland, OR, Mara Lee (Gary) Cook of Grand Rapids, Jola Dean Stone of Grand Rapids and Andrew Franklin (Rose) Cole of Greenville; her grandchildren: Katie and Angie Liebert, Gari Lee (Chris) Johnson, Emmy (Brandon) Glass, Sierra and Melanie Cole, and Amanda (Mike) Ciraulo; 9 great-grandchildren and her first great-great grandchild due in the fall as well as many other relatives.

A Memorial Gathering will be held at a later date. Private burial at Fairplains Cemetery will take place.

Memorial donations in Jo’s memory can be made to Spectrum Health Hospice or a charity of your own choice.

The family would like to thank the staff at Spectrum Hospice, Heron Woods and Vista Springs for their compassionate care of our mother.