Benjamin Thomas Cole passed away peacefully at Orillia Soldier’s Memorial Hospital on Thursday October 24, 2024 with his family by his side. He was the loving husband to Shirley Marie Edith Cole (Brennan), father to Allyson Cole-Duffield (Todd), Pauline Cole (Doug) and Carolyn Mulder (Ron) and grandfather to Matthew (Liz), Caleb, Gavyn, Madeline, Kerstin (James), Erik (Natascha) and great grandfather to Abby, Blythe, Charlie and Ruby.
Ben grew up in Orillia and completed Trade School in Toronto. At the age of 21 he started his own successful Plumbing and Heating Business that lasted for 42 years. He was married to the love of his life for 68 years and was a caring, doting husband. Ben enjoyed the outdoors where he loved walking through the bush, hunting, fishing, canoeing, golfing, skiing, snowshoeing and relaxing at the pond. During his retirement years he traveled extensively and vacationed in Florida where he spent many enjoyable hours lawn bowling. His most precious moments were with his family: eating, laughing, playing cards and enjoying the camaraderie.
Those who knew Ben will remember him for his quiet, caring ways. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a positive way of looking at the world. He was a role model in the way he loved and cared for his family. He spent wonderful quality time with his grandchildren who adored him. Ben made a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. He will be greatly missed.
Ben’s family would like to thank the staff and Health Care Professionals both at Soldier’s Memorial Hospital and the Leacock Retirement Lodge for their exceptional care and support for Ben and his family.
Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of life for Ben Cole at Carson Funeral Homes-L Doolittle Chapel, 54 Coldwater Street E Orillia (705) 326-3595 on Friday November 1. Visitation will be from 11 am to 1 pm followed by a service in the chapel and refreshments.
Condolences
Brenda Moore nee Bartlett
Nov 1, 2024Shirley my thoughts and prayers are with you and your precious family .... I have many found memories of the Cole family, our gracious neighbours. May the Lord bless and comfort you all.
Sarah Allen (oakley)
Nov 1, 2024Shirley and family I was so sorry to hear of Ben's passing. He was always a favorite on Sunday mornings after church to get a big hug from and a "so how was this week?". His kind eyes and open arms were always a happy start to my week. He will be missed.
Becky Seymour
Oct 31, 2024So sorry for your loss.
Win Hibbins
Oct 31, 2024Dearest Shirley! The memories of our times together are so precious. Praying for you to know, in a deeper way, our Heavenly Father's presence as he holds you close; the strength and faithfulness of our Lord Jesus Christ and the ever comforting presence and encouragement of the Holy Spirit as each new day dawns. Hugs 'n Prayers 🤗🙏 Win
James and Lorna Dallimore
Oct 30, 2024Dearest Shirley, Allyson, Pauline, Carolyn and families, Lorna and I are sadden by the passing of a great man and friend. We are so happy that we were part of his and your lives for may years. We wish to continue our friendship with you. We are now living in Sidney on Vancouver Island at 2023 Sunfield Cres.,Sidney BC, V8l 4N9. We would love to have any of you visit. Lorna's phone 905-749-4903 James's phone number 416-303-2224 Love to you all. James and Lorna
Sheldon & Denise Bartlett
Oct 30, 2024I just now learned from my sister Jennifer of Ben’s passing. To say the very least I am heartbroken!! To Shirley and the girls and their families…Their are two people in the mountains of British Columbia that are thinking of you all!! Ben is one of my most cherished people on earth,,❤️❤️ Yogi & Denise Bartlett
Kevin Binsted
Oct 29, 2024To Shirley and Family, Sorry for your loss. I enjoyed many lawn bowl outings with Ben and was happy to acquire his bowls after he retired from bowling. He was a gracious competitor and great bowler. I also recall that my father Murray Binsted officiated at your wedding. Condolences again, Kevin
Esther Nash
Oct 29, 2024So sorry for your loss Shirley. Fond memories of you both over the years.
Joel Nicholson
Oct 28, 2024Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss of your dad. You are in my thoughts. Sending you love and support during this sad time
Darold Hack
Oct 28, 2024So sorry for the loss of father; husband My deepest condolences to the entire family; thinking of you all at this very difficult time Darold Hack
Kelly Duggan
Oct 28, 2024I never met Ben personally, but he opened up and closed down my Mum and Dad's cottage at Nelson Grove on Bass Lake for well over a quarter century. My sincere condolences to Ben's family.
Rob and Penny Doughty
Oct 28, 2024Shirley and family Our sincere condolences to you all. Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Rusty and Pat Draper
Oct 26, 2024To Shirley and family: May God comfort you during this difficult time you’re going through. I have nothing to add that hasn’t already been said in this beautifully written obituary.
Paul Connor
Oct 26, 2024Deepest condolences to Shirley and family. Ben was a wonderful man, a gentle giant. So many fond memories. God bless
Kerry and Cheryl Sears-Fournier
Oct 26, 2024Shirley and family; we are saddened to hear of Ben's passing...our thoughts and prayers are with you all.