William H. Cole passed away suddenly on January 7th, 2024 at 80 years of age. He was predeceased by his sons Shawn and Lyle Cole and survived by his wife of 42 years, Kathleen Cole, his brother Dan Cole, his step-children Jennifer Ferrara, Deanna LaManna, and Joseph Rizzo and 7 grandchildren, Christopher, Ruby, Jordyn, Ryanne, Josie, Phoebe and Sam. Bill was born and raised in New Mexico but settled in Rochester, NY with his wife to be closer to family.
Bill was a successful businessman who traveled the world before meeting Cathie. Their love was undeniably genuine and clear and they were married in 1982. Bill was a loving, committed, and deeply devoted husband to Cathie. He brought a sense of adventure to her life with his love of snowmobiling, camping, boating and off-roading. They had an amazing life together as they explored the country living in Pennsylvania, Florida, Texas, California and several locations in New York.
We can’t begin to describe Bill’s life, career, or experiences. The only thing we can do is explain the impact he had on our lives as a step-father. We know that we are better people for having witnessed his love and commitment to our mother. Bill knew how to demonstrate it in small ways and big ways with thoughtful gestures like changing the name of his boat to “Cathie’s, Too”.
It wasn’t easy in the beginning to be a blended family but Bill never gave up trying to prove that he was equally committed and devoted to Cathie’s children. Over time, we grew into a family and Bill changed the name of his boat once again…to “OURS”.
We had many adventures on that boat and they were life-changing for us. We went across Lake Ontario to Toronto where we explored the city and slept overnight on the boat. We went to The Point in Pittsburgh to see Three Rivers Stadium, the bridges, and city from the perspective of the water. We went on trips on the ocean off the coast of Florida and through intercoastal waterways. We had amazing picnics docked in the sand in freshwater springs, playing games in the clear water and soaking up the sun. Those experiences shaped and changed our lives for the better.
Bill was a fascinating person. He added so much to conversations, seemed to know everything, and drew people in with his engaging stories. He truly listened when people spoke. That was one of the many gifts he gave us. He was always there. He always listened. His guidance shaped our lives and the lives of so many others, including his grandchildren. He was incredibly proud of them and loved them with his whole heart. They miss him terribly but will always think of him and smile when they hear the voice and lyrics of his favorite artist, Adele.
We love you and miss you, Bill.
In honor of Bill’s memory, please consider a donation to the Shriners, an organization close to his family’s heart.