July 8, 1943 - November 5, 2022
In Loving Memory ~
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved husband and father, Francis (Frank) Cole, on Saturday, November 5th, at St Paul's Hospital.
Frank is predeceased by his parents, Gordon and Alma Cole, as well as his younger brother, Bruce. Survived by his loving wife Lesley, of 45 years, as well as his daughters, Heidi (Sean), Sarah (Walter), and seven grandchildren; Hannah, Heath, Rebecca, Cole, Carter, Hudson & Lauren. Also survived by his brother, Bob (Margaret) and many extended family members.
Frank was born and raised in Galt (now Cambridge), Ontario, the second of three sons. He had an innate drive and valued hard work and education, earning a business degree from Ryerson University, then moving onto law school at Osgoode Hall.
Summer breaks were spent happily at the Château Lake Louise, where Frank worked as a bellhop, cultivating friendships that would ultimately last 50 years.
In 1971, Frank was called to the bar. For two decades he practiced family law in Vernon, BC; beginning at Davidson & Company, then subsequently Sigalet, Maguire & Cole. Appointed to the Supreme Court of British Columbia in 1996, Frank served as a Justice in Vancouver for over 20 years, until mandatory retirement at age 75.
Frank gave voice to the vulnerable and those in need. He was inspired by his mother Alma, who in the 1950s, opened the first school in Galt for children with special needs. Frank's brother, Bruce, was the first student.
Throughout his career, Frank served on the Vernon School Board, Silver Star Rotary Club, North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society, Vernon Community Living Society, and as president of the Vernon Bar Association.
Frank was sought out for sage advice and insight. Although his list of achievements is long, he was most proud of his family. He was truly one of a kind, and he will be deeply missed.
A celebration of life is planned for Spring 2023 in Vernon BC.