William E. Cole

Bill passed peacefully in the early morning of January 26th 2025, after a valiant fight against aggressive prostate cancer. Having been born to George E. Cole Sr. and Bernice (Robinson) on August 17,1955. Bill was 69 years old.

Bill was a unique man who worked, lived, and loved, with passion. You might remember Bill from the Salvation Army Church, Hbg. Corps, where he had been a member and supporter for many many years. Perhaps you remember Bill from Fruehauf, Middletown ,PA., where he worked from the mid 70s until their closing. Also, serving as President of Local Labor Union #480 for several years during his tenure. Bill then return to school becoming Certified in HVAC. While finishing school, Bill obtained employment with Hershey Foods, and continued to work there until he retired in 2018, with 22 years of service, and a Cerrtificate of Achievement for Perfect Attendance. After retiring and traveling a bit, Bill returned to work part time at Turner Chevrolet, as their courtesy vehicle driver. Lastly, Bill was employed part-time with Dollar Tree on Linglestown Rd. He loved this position, as it allowed him to socialize and achieve his daily walking goal.

Bill's work ethic was unmatchable, but he played hard too. Bill developed an affinity for cars early and was a super fan of NHRA. Specifically, Big Daddy Don Garlits and John Force Racing. Bill annually attended the Cruisin Ocean City Event, Bike Week at Ocean City, and just about any Carlisle Fairgrounds event that involved something on wheels, except of course Fords or Foreign. Bill amassed friends near and far while visiting various racing museums and tracks, or when participating in a charitable bike ride. Bill was a fierce advocate against breast cancer, so “ feel your boobies”, in his honor. Bill was a caring and capable patriarch of the Cole family. William, as he would say, means “protector”, and protect us he did. Bill cared relentlessly for his mother and father through their later years, and he was bedside for his wife, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law, throughout their health battles.

Bill was a Patriot. He always supported Veterans and was proud to fly the American Flag, wholeheartedly believing in what it stands for. He was especially proud of his nephew, Retired Army Staff Sergeant John Cole (Sandra, Ret. Air Force Master Sergeant), for continuing the Cole family legacy of military service.

Bill was pre deceased by his parents, George E.Cole Sr. and Bernice (Robinson), by his precious wife, Beverly A. (Foster) Cole, on January 16th 1988, by his mother-in-law, Anna M. Foster, his brothers George E. Cole Jr., (special sister-in-law) Barb Cole, a brother Lawrence Cole, and (nephew) Myles Cole.

Bill leaves to celebrate his life and legacy his beloved only child, Terri A. (Cole) Aycock (Richard), three Grandsons, Devan C. Claiborne , Teryn William Cole, and Marlon D. Zuber Jr.. Bonus Granddaughter, Olivia L. Clouser, whom he loved , adored, and cherished as his own. (Brother) Gary Cole, (Sister) Paula Cole - Miller, (Special friend/ Sister-in-law) Rebecca Gruber, VIP’s Tina and Tisha Barilla, and Elaine Lesher, multiple nieces and nephews, and many,many friends.

Per Bill's wishes, there will be no viewing or funeral service. Bill and Beverly will be enshrined together during a private family ceremony.

There will however, be a large celebration of Bill's life on August 17th 2025. Details will be forthcoming. Please make any memorial contributions to Hospice of Central PA, the Harrisburg Humane Society, or The Beverly A. Cole Memorial Scholarship Fund at Susquehanna Twp High School.

Lovingly submitted by The Family.