James “Bud” Cole, 88, of Traverse City, Mich., died Friday, July 22, 2011 at Munson Medical Center.
He was born March 5, 1923 in Kinston, Mich., to Glen and Marie Keppen.
After being raised on his family farm, and graduating from Berkley High School in 1940, he answered the call of his nation and enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard. He served on the U.S.S. Wakefield in the Atlantic during World War II.
He married his best friend Beth on April 29, 1943 in New York City.
His career in law enforcement began for the Grand Trunk Railroad. He then moved his family to Berkley where he started as a motorcycle patrolman. He was promoted to sergeant, detective, and finally as chief of police, the position he held until he retired in 1975.
From 1975 to 1996, they lived in Suttons Bay in a home on the bay he helped build. In 1996, they moved to Fairhope, where they enjoyed 10 years of sunshine, warm winters and many new friends.
In 2006, when health issues demanded, they returned to Traverse City where they have resided since in the Estates at Terrace Bluff. They have been surrounded by caring friends and neighbors there.
In his spare time, he enjoyed piloting his small engine aircraft and being a member of the Traverse City Rock and Mineral Club, the Theater Pipe Organ Club and the Traverse City Elks Club.
Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Beth McCracken Cole; two daughters Marie Cole Graham of California and Teresa Cole (Jeff) Mattis of Suttons Bay; grandchildren Debra (Sam) LaFon of California, Melissa Graham of Washington, Eric (Kristina) of Traverse City and Mark (Summer) Mattis of Traverse City; and eight great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held this fall at the Traverse City Elks Club.
The family requests memorial donations be made to the Grand Traverse History Center, the Traverse City Garden Club or the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Fla.
Arrangements are by Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Traverse City, Mich. Online condolences may be made at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.
