James A. Cole, Sr., 70, of Thendara died unexpectedly February 21, 2013, in his home.
He was born August 18, 1942 in Montrose, NY, the son of James H. and Sophia (Sessock) Cole. He graduated from Hendrick Hudson High School in 1960. Jim joined the Montrose Fire Department at the age of 18, where he eventually became Chief and Fire Commissioner.
Jim served his country in the U.S. Army from 1964 until his honorable discharge in 1966. He went on to serve in the Army Reserves until 1970.
He became a sheet metal worker with Local 38 in Brewster, NY, a job from which he later retired.
On August 31, 1969 he was united in marriage with Nina Barger in Peekskill, NY. The couple enjoyed their visits to the Old Forge area so much that they eventually purchased property in Thendara.
Being the craftsman and handyman that he was, Jim turned their modest cabin into a full-sized, year-round home for their family. Nina unfortunately passed away in 2007.
Jim enjoyed just about everything the outdoors had to offer including snowmobiling, camping, hunting and fishing.
He truly loved people, and was quick to offer a helping hand.
His loyalty was to his family, friends, community and his country. His community service as a firefighter was officially recognized by Montrose FD with the recent award of his 50-Year Pin. He also was a member of the OFFD, and Covey-Pashley Post 893 American Legion.
Jim was presently in business with his son, Jimmy, operating Jim’s Lawn Service and snow plowing business. Survivors include his son, James A. Cole II of Thendara; a sister, Linda Janson and her husband, Maris, of CA; two cherished “Sons,” Jim Anstett and Jody Carroll; and countless others whose friendship and caring meant so much to Jim.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 28 at 11 a.m. at the Old Forge Fire Department. Arrangements were made by the Dimbleby, Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral Home of Old Forge.
In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to consider a donation in Jim’s memory to the Old Forge Fire Department, P.O. Box 1170, Old Forge, NY 13420.
Online messages of sympathy may be left at www.dfwefh.com.
