David Richard Cole

Racine – David Richard Cole, 65, passed away peacefully at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 following a 9-month battle with Esophageal Cancer. David was born in Chicago on November 13, 1943 to Richard D. and Grace (nee: Jacobson) Cole. Following high school, he enlisted with the United States Army in 1961. While serving our Country in Germany, David met the love of his life, Heidi Tempel. They were married in South Holland, IL on June 27, 1964. During his career, David was a devoted employee of Able Tool and Die in Indiana; Interstate Drop Forge in Milwaukee; and Permacel in Pleasant Prairie. David and Heidi moved to Racine in 1997 from Illinois. David was a self-taught handyman who could repair absolutely anything. He enjoyed being in his workshop, riding his motorcycle and caring for his canine companions. Above all, David was happiest when in the surroundings of his family. Surviving are his loving wife of 44 years, Heidi; their son, David Cole; grandchildren, Megan, Jacob and Kelly Cole, all of Racine; mother, Grace (Maurice) Radtke; sisters, Diane Dykstra and Donna (Mickey) Koehler; brothers, Dennis (Beverly) Cole and George Cole; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. David was preceded in death by his father, Richard Cole; and brother-in-law, Joseph Dykstra. Funeral services will be held in the funeral home on Monday, February 16, 2009 at 12:00 noon with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Interment, with military honors, will follow in the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Monday from 10 am – 12 noon. A special note of thanks to Young Choi, MD and the entire staff of Wheaton Franciscan Cancer Center , Medical Center 2nd floor, and Hospice for the compassionate care and support extended to David in his time of need. God bless all of you!