Richard Charles “Dick” Cole Passed away, peacefully, September 5, 2018. He was born May 23, 1948, in Oneonta to the late Newton and Doris Cronkite Cole. Dick grew up in Franklin and was proud to earn his High School Diploma. He lived in the Franklin and Oneonta areas all his life.
Dick joined the United States Army in 1968, and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War completing two tours of duty. While in Vietnam he served with the 11th Armored Cavalry Division attaining the Rank of E5.
He loved being a trucker and especially his travels while driving truck for many local companies—his most recent for Bolus Freight of Scranton, PA until his retirement in 2008. Dick was always a very hard worker, splitting wood even in his retirement. Dick loved trucks and tractors and anyone that knew him could attest to that. He loved meeting people and was known to many people in and out of the area. He loved going to auctions and collecting. He enjoyed his retirement to the fullest, but was always available when someone needed help. Dick was a member of the River Street Baptist Church. He was also a member of the Franklin American Legion, a life-member of the 11th Armored Cavalry Veterans of Vietnam and Cambodia. He was also a member of the American Truck Historical Society, CNY Chapter as well as the Antique Truck Club of America, SCNY Chapter.
Dick is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Sliwa (Achim) of East Meredith, his son Richard Christopher of Franklin, his former wife, Anne Cole, his sisters Joan (Michael) Crippen of Milford and the Villages, FL and Linda Ruling (Richard) of East Meredith as well as his companion Penny Corns of Springfield Ctr, NY. Dick is also survived by his many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews and many cousins.
A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, September 11, 2018, at 11 AM in the Milford Cemetery, Milford, with the Rev. Judy Thistle officiating.
Friends may call at the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oneonta, Monday evening from 5 to 7 PM, at which time the family will be in attendance.
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