William E. "Bill" Cole

A lifelong resident of Turtle Creek, age 90, died on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. He was a U. S. Army veteran and former Chief of Police in Turtle Creek.
Bill was the beloved husband of the late Sandra “Sandy” (McClelland) Cole for 61 years.
He was the treasured father of Todd (Marlene) Cole of Monroeville, Denise (late Andrew, Sr.) Kocan and the late William H. Cole.
Bill was the cherished grandfather of Christopher (Valerie) Cole, Bradley (Daneen) Cole, Ashley (Jake) Yeargers, Andrew Kocan, Jr., Alyssa Cole and William Cole.
He was also the great-grandfather of Nolan, Noah, Maverick, Lincoln, Rhett, Jace and an expected baby girl.
Bill is also survived by his brother, Paul (Linda) Cole of Conneaut Lake and his special friend and caregiver, Bobby DelBene. 
Bill was a 1952 graduate of Turtle Creek High School. Following his military service, Bill returned to his hometown where he became a notable figure in law enforcement.
For over three decades, Bill served as a police officer in Turtle Creek, dedicating 32 years to protecting and serving his hometown community. He earned the respect and admiration of both his colleagues and the community. The culmination of his career was his appointment as Chief of Police, a role he held with distinction for the last 8 years, or so, before his retirement at the age of 62.
Bill was a longtime member of the F.& A. M. Lodge #613 in Turtle Creek and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #91.
An avid boater, Bill found peace and joy in the waters of Conneaut Lake. It was here that he enjoyed some of his happiest moments, steering through the waves with his beloved wife Sandy and their family. 
Bill will be remembered as a pillar of the Turtle Creek community who exemplified what it means to be a devoted public servant and a loving family man. 
Friends are welcome on Saturday from 12 noon to 4pm at Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Turtle Creek / Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave., Turtle Creek, 412-823-9350.
A Funeral Service will take place at 4pm, followed by a Presentation of Military Honors.
Bill will be entombed privately at Churchill Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38103 or www.stjude.org.