Robert E. Cole, 81, of Biggsville, IL died at 10:30 A.M. Sunday, May 25, 2014 at his home.
Bob was born on May 4, 1933 in his family’s home in rural Kirkwood, IL. He is the son of James Franklin and Fannie Bertha (York) Cole. He was raised and educated in Kirkwood and attended Kirkwood and Roseville Schools.
He married Louise Link in Media, IL on March 11, 1951. She preceded him in death on June 25, 1994. Bob was engaged to Diana Mackey, she survives.
Bob was a carpenter many years and later realtor in the Monmouth area. He was a business owner and entrepreneur, who enjoyed being self-employed his whole life.
He was a member of the Monmouth V.F.W. Post 2301, and the Maple City Antique Tractor Club. Bob enjoyed restoring Allis-Chalmers tractors, flipping houses, golfing, attending family events, and his grandchildren’s activities. He was always busy.
Bob is survived by his fiancé Diana Mackey, his children; Steven Cole of Stronghurst, IL, Roger (Deb) Cole of Gladstone, IL., Janet (Gary) Root of Stronghurst, James Cole of Monmouth, and Michelle Mackey-Long of Oquawka, IL. Grandchildren; Brett Cole, Tracey Bigger, Kimberly Doornbos, Robert Root, Aaron Cole, Marissa Gibb, Drew Cole, Erika Cole, Kayla Long, Trace Long, and Alyssa Long. Also surviving are 22 great grandchildren,1 great great grandson, 2 brothers; Chuck (Phyllis) Cole of Media, Gerald (Georgia) Cole of Monmouth, Diana’s mother Mary McIntosh, Diana’s sibling’s, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, grandsons Jeffrey Cole and Jeffrey Doornbos, Great Grandson Matthew Doornbos, 4 brothers, 5 sisters; Diana’s children Clarissa Mackey, Tammy Mackey and her father Gene McIntosh.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 30, 2014 at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory in Monmouth. Interment will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery in Media, IL. Friends may call Thursday, May 29, 2014 where his family will be present from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M.. A memorial fund has been established for Rainbow Riders. For more information please visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com or call 309-734-6008.
