Donald E. Cole Sr.

Donald E. Cole Sr., affectionately known as Don, passed away on November 5, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on February 19, 1939, in Morenci, Michigan, Don was known throughout his life for his incredible work ethic and the warmth he shared with everyone around him.

For many years, Don dedicated himself to his business as the owner/operator of Cole Window Cleaning, where he was beloved by his clients. His commitment to his work remained strong until he was 83 years old. Outside of his professional life, Don was a consummate jokester who loved to make people laugh. His personality shone brightly through his ability to spread joy and kindness, and he was cherished by many.

Don found great pleasure in the simple joys of life. He enjoyed tinkering on various projects in his barn and working diligently in his yard, with a special love for his garden. Over the years, he demonstrated his considerate nature by taking food to shut-ins from the food bank, touching many lives with his selflessness.

Family meant the world to Don. He was especially proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He leaves behind his loving sons Raymond Cole, Tracy Cole and his wife Sheila, Scott Cole, and daughter Candyce Howard and her husband Neal. Don was also the proud grandfather of Crystal Cole-Stiegal and her husband Thomas, Hunter Cole, Tracy Cole Jr., Chad Zentgraf, Leticia Valdez and her husband Lee, Jessalena Hijioka and her husband Kevin, Jacob Howard and his wife Angela, Emily Howard, Rosendo Vasquez and his wife Renee, Alex Vasquez, Miguel Vasquez, Sunshine Cole and her husband Joe, along with numerous great-grandchildren.

Don is survived by a multitude of extended family members who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his son, Donald Cole Jr.; granddaughter, Angel Cole-Mills; father, Norman Cole; mother, Viola Cole; step-mother, Flora Cole, sister, Mary Whitten; sister, Anna Mae Cox; brother, Clyde Cole; and his grandmother, Mary Cole, who raised him.

Visitation services will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home in Southwest Toledo on November 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on November 13, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A funeral service will take place on November 13 at 11:00 AM, followed by a graveside service at Restlawn Memorial Park in Perrysburg at 12:30 PM.

Don's memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He was a remarkable man whose contributions to his family and community will forever be remembered.