Michael Norman Cole, a man of profound faith, distinguished service, and unwavering love for his family, entered eternal rest on January 25, 2026.

Born on February 3, 1949, in Gladstone, Michigan, to Norman and Emily Cole, Michael lived a life devoted to God, Country, and Family. After spending two years playing college football, he volunteered to proudly serve his country in the United States Army with two tours in Vietnam. After returning from Vietnam, Michael completed University and continued his service with the Department of Defense where his sense of duty led him to jump at an opportunity to serve in Iraq. His unending sense of service to country and spirit for adventure provided him an opportunity for another adventure; all the way through the war-torn streets of Baghdad, driving through IEDs, rocket barrages at Camp Victory in Baghdad, where he was stationed, all the way to visiting first testament home of Jonah in Ninevah, Iraq.

Michael was, above all, a faithful servant of Christ. His life was a living testimony to his Catholic faith, which served as his anchor and guide that he bestowed upon his family. A longtime, active Catholic, he didn't just attend Mass; he embodied the Catholic spirit through his kindness, his humility, and his readiness to help anyone in need. His friends and family will remember him as a man of deep moral conviction who led by example, showing that a life of service to God is a life well-lived.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Sonhi Cole; his children, Christina Cole, and Adam (Brittany) Cole, his cherished grandchildren, Sean, Olivia, Luke, Bennett; and his sisters Susan LaPlant and Carol (Mike) Deshambo. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Emily Cole; his brother Pat Cole; and brother-in-law Lynn LaPlant.

He was deeply loved by sisters and brothers-in-laws, nieces, and nephews, and all who knew him.