Mr. Bob

January 2, 1938 - July 4, 2011

OBITUARY

ROBERT WILLIAM COLE, JR.

Robert William Cole, Jr., 73, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee passed away on July 4, 2011.  He was born in East Aurora, NY to Robert William Cole, Sr. and Helen Margaret Hetzel Cole. He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 47 years, Mary Guycell Cole and his two loving daughters, Robin Cole Sandlin and son-in-law Donald and Pamela Cole Dye and son-in-law Adrian.  He was the cherished grandfather of one grandson, Cole Sandlin. He is also survived by a brother, Frederick Cole (Sharon) of East Aurora, NY and three nephews.

Bob had a long and distinguished avaiation career which began with service in the United States Air Force where he achieved the rank of Captain. His military service took him all over the world and included participation in Top Secret Military Operations flying a C-130 aircraft.  His military service also included serving in the Vietnam War.

Following his military service, Bob began a successful 32 year career as a pilot for American Airlines flying both in the States and Europe on several aircraft.  At retirement, Bob was a Captain flying a 747 aircraft internationally.  Following retirement, Bob continued serving in the field of avaiation as a "Flying Ace" volunteer at the Nashville International Airport. He enjoyed participating in several groups including his Air Force and American Airlines alumni groups.

Bob was a very active member of Saint Patrick's Anglican Church in Smyrna, TN.  Bob had a wide range of interests including his church fellowship, aviation, classic cars, music and nature.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the "Building Fund" at Bob's church, Saint Patrick's Anglican Church, P.O. Box 941 Smyrna, TN 37167.