Vernon S. Cole

Vernon S. Cole passed away on November 23, 2012, at the age of 88, after a long illness. Vern was born and raised in San Jose, the only child of Salvador Alford Cole and Nancy Louise Bruscato. He served in the U. S. Army Air Force during WWII, in the South Pacific. Following his military service, he returned to San Jose with his first wife Myrtle Alene Casey, where they raised three children. Vern worked as a saddle maker for Rowell and Capriola Saddle Co.’s, and with his father, Sal, in the wholesale fruit business, before joining the City of San Jose Fire Department where he spent 27 years proudly serving until his retirement from Willow Glen Station 6, with the rank of captain. While working for the fire department, Vern along with some partners opened The Train Shop, first in San Jose, then Santa Clara. He retired for a second time, 5 years ago after nearly 35 years at the shop. After Myrtle’s death in 1979, Vern met and married his wife of 31 years, Shirley Faye Garcia. Vern was a very warm and kind man, always making those around him feel welcome; he was devoted to Shirley and their combined families. Vern would want us to remember him with joy for his rich, full life. He is survived by his beloved wife Shirley Cole, children Nancy Heath of Arizona, Dennis Cole (Sherrie) of Gilroy, Pattie Hunt (Lawrence) of Watsonville, step children Jamie Meeks (Craig) of Gilroy, Doug Garcia (Debbie) of New Mexico, John Garcia (Helen) of San Jose, Ted Garcia (Kelly) of Gilroy, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His strength and determination will never be forgotten. Services will be held Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 12:00 pm, Johnson Funeral Home, Morgan Hill.