Edward J. Cole
Edward J. Cole Obituary
Edward “Ed” Joseph Cole, 87, passed away peacefully on June 26th, 2024, in Boston, Massachusetts. Born on July 29th, 1936, in Norwalk, CT, Ed grew up in Norwalk, later moving to Wilton, and then Redding, CT where he lived with his beloved wife, Betsy until they retired to York, ME in 1997. Ed was a devoted husband, father of six, grandfather to 12, and great-grandfather to seven.
Ed began his career as a carpenter and then moved on to start his own business as a General Contractor and was an early adopter of renewable energy geo-thermal technology in homes that he built in Fairfield County, CT in the 1970s and 80s. Upon retiring to Maine, he and Betsy transformed their 1890’s Shingle-Style home overlooking the jagged Maine Coast back to its original splendor. She brought her talent as an Interior Designer, and Ed brought his master craftsmanship to bring her vision to life. Their home was the heart of the family where everyone gathered for holidays and events. Ed also enjoyed spending his winters at their home in Key West where they had an abundant social life for many years.
Ed had a passion for music and was a self-taught piano and guitar player. He was also an avid learner with interests ranging from getting his pilot’s license to sailing his boat, Tenacity, in Casco Bay and beyond. Ed cared so deeply for humanity, devoting both his time and resources to non-profit organizations over the years, making a real difference in the lives of many.
As a husband, father, grandfather and friend, Ed will be remembered as a generous, gentle, and humble man who lifted others up, and inspired and motivated through sharing his philosophies on life and lessons lived. In the days leading up to his passing, he was still giving to others around him.
Ed is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Betsy” Bigelow Cole, and five of his children, Ray (Marolyn), Jennifer, Janica (Peter), Lisa (Marc) and Kristi (Jay). He was also survived by his sister, Sharyn. He was predeceased by his son, Drew.
Services will not be held at this time. To those who may wish to make donations in his honor, the family suggests considering the Lymphoma & Leukemia Society or Mass General, where he received exceptional care by the oncology staff over the past months.
Donate to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (lls.org)
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