Robert J. Cole, 91, of Hollidaysburg, PA passed away at home on Wednesday, September 1, 2021. He was born in Ashville, PA. the youngest son of Earl M. and Ethel Mae (Fleck) Cole. He married Mary Ann Risoldi on July 21, 1951. They recently celebrated their 70th anniversary of marriage.
Bob worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad before serving in the U.S. Army, as Corporal, 955th Engineering Corp. stationed in Germany for 2 years (1952-54). Afterward he began his career in sales and management working for Sears, ASI and S&H Green Stamps. After retiring from Sears he was self-employed in property rental and management. He also had some business ventures including RoCo, JetFit and Country Bargains.
He enjoyed playing cards, dancing, gardening and spending time with family and friends. He was a very talented self-taught “jack of all trades” with knowledge of carpentry, plumbing, electrical and most things mechanical in nature. Always quick to lend a helping hand to family, friends and neighbors.
Bob was a parishioner of St. John’s Catholic Church in Lakemont. He also was a member of the VFW and Bavarian Hall.
In addition to his wife Mary Ann, Bob is survived by his daughter, Mary Anne (Cole) Rowan, husband David. Two grandchildren, Thaddeus C. Rowan (wife Lucy), Laura R. Rowan (wife Millie) and a great granddaughter, Willa Grace Rowan. In addition, many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by brothers James H. and William G. Cole and sisters Mary Lou Scott and Kathleen Stock.
Family and friends will be received from 6-8PM on Friday, September 3, 2021 and 11AM -12PM on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at the Good Funeral Home, 108 Alto Reste Park, Altoona, PA. The Funeral Mass will be at 1PM on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Lakemont.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bob’s favorite charities, Shriner’s Children Hospital, PO Box 1525, Ranson, WV 25438 or Boys Town, PO Box 8000 Boys Town, NE 68010.
An online guestbook may be signed and condolences sent to the family at www.thegoodfuneralhomeinc.com