Kenneth Leroy Cole Jr.

Kenneth Leroy Cole Jr., 77 of Traverse City passed away Thursday, July 14, 2022 at home with his loving family at his side.

Ken was born on June 2, 1945 in Kilgore, TX to the late Dr. Kenneth (Irene) Cole Sr. Honorably, he served our country in the United States Army in Vietnam, Germany and Virginia. While he was Stationed in Germany he met and fell in love with Ingeborg Josefa Mies. Together they lovingly raised two wonderful children, Eric and Jennifer.

Upon his return from service, Ken joined the Michigan Department of Corrections and worked at Camp Pugsley for 27 dedicated years as a corrections facility officer. He took great pride in counseling the youth while he was working at Pugsley.

After his retirement he enjoyed being outdoors. Hunting, fishing, boating, hunting for morels and his model trains. Ken was a great husband, father, grandfather and friend. His smile, sense of humor and love for his family will be treasured forever.

Ken is survived by his loving wife Inge of 53 wonderful years, his children, Eric (Monika), Jennifer (David), grandchildren, Mike, Elizabeth, Josefa, his siblings, Connie (Fred) Breton, Gerald (Denise) Cole, sister-in-law Linda Cole, his half brother Larry Chevrenka, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, brother Victor, and his nephew Curtis Breton.

Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Thursday, July 21, 2022 at the Church of Christ with a visitation held one hour prior. Full military honors will take place. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Church of Christ or Munson Hospice. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .