Walter Lee “Walt” Cole, 85, of Vandalia, Illinois, passed away Friday, December 1, 2023, in Vandalia, IL.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, with Pastor Tim Weihrauch, officiating. Visitation will be held from 9 AM to 11 AM, 2 hours prior to the service at the funeral home. Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, is in charge of arrangements. Memorials: American Heart Association of St. Louis, MO and/or Shriners Hospitals for Children. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.millerfh.net.
He was born March 10, 1938, in Decatur, IL, the son of Clifford H. and Wilma F. (Nalley) Cole. He married Marilyn Mae Wodtke on February 13, 1965, in Vandalia, IL. Walter was a 1956 graduate of Vandalia Community High School. He worked as a heavy equipment operator and was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 520 for over 66 years and never missed a day logging a total of 135,765 hours; he spent 10 years at Alton Lock & Dam #26 helping with its construction; worked in heavy equipment sales; was affiliated with the First Pentecostal Church; a member of the Vandalia Moose Lodge; past member of the Masons and Shriners; Fraternal Order of Eagles; liked hunting, fishing, and boating, playing the lottery, watching Wheel of Fortune, Price is Right and the Food Network; and especially loved spending time with his family, taking them on Sunday scenic drives.
He is survived by: Wife – Marilyn Cole, Vandalia, IL; Daughter – Marilee Stine & Greg Blackburn; Son – Cash Cole; Grandchildren – Nikki (Stine) Tingle & Ricky, Ethan Stine, Zane, Liea, Tori, Sara, Justin and Brandon Blackburn and Autumn Cole; Great Grandson – Hollis Cole; Brother – Danny Cole & Deanna, Knoxville, TN; and devoted feline, Curious.
Preceded in death by: Parents; Son-in-law – Louie Stine; Grandson – Dylan Lennon Stine; Sister – Dee Ann Thompson.
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