JOHN FRANCIS KOLE

John Francis Kole, age 75, of Brunswick, OH, passed away peacefully at home with his wife and daughter at his side on Thursday, January 26, 2023. He was born on October 30, 1947, to the late Michael and Mary (née Kokal) Kole in Cleveland, Ohio.

In his younger years he was an active member of the Boy Scouts and achieved the highest rank of Eagle Scout. His love of softball grew, and he played for many years through adulthood. When he could no longer play, he became an umpire! John graduated from Cleveland State University and afterwards proudly served in the Army National Guard. He was a parishioner at St. Colette Catholic Church, as well as a member of the Holy Name Society and the Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree. John did not like to sit still and was always working with his hands. He greatly enjoyed traveling via all means possible with his wife, playing poker with his brothers and friends, and going on bus or car trips to casinos whether as a player or a dealer.

John will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 44 years, Dori; daughter Laura (Colin) Simmons; granddaughter Anastasia; brothers Michael (Judy) and Richard; many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews; and brother-in-law, Tom (Kathy) Brys.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Sharon.

Visitation for John will be held at St. Colette Catholic Church, 330 W. 130th St, Brunswick, at 10:00 am followed by Mass at 11:00 am on Monday, January 30, 2023. Burial will be immediate family only at Resurrection Cemetery, Valley City.

Donations in John’s name will graciously be accepted by the Brunswick Food Pantry, 835 Pearl Rd, Brunswick, OH 44212 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38107-9929.