Franklin Delano Cole

Franklin Delano Cole, 88 of Thermopolis, Wyo., passed away at home peacefully on February 13, 2025. He was born November 25,1936, in Thermopolis to Benjamin H (Happy) Cole and Ida A Nelson. The family moved to Santa Rosa, Calif., where he graduated high school. His enthusiasm for aviation led him to enlist in the Air Force from 1956 to1960, and with the help of the GI Bill he earned his private pilot license after an Honorable Discharge.

He met Donna G Brizendine in Santa Rosa and they married in 1962. Together in their 63 years they built a beautiful family. He was a devoted father to Nanette Louise and Gwendolyn Rae.

The family moved to Cody, Wyo., in 1972 where Frank worked in the news paper business until moving to Lander, where he went to work for the State of Wyoming Department of Revenue until his retirement in 1995. He and his wife moved to Thermopolis in 1996 to be close to their children and grandchildren in their retirement.

Frank lived a life full of love, laughter, and memorable moments. He was known for his compassion for people and animals alike, which led him to participate in clubs such as Kiwanis and Roundtop Sams. His love of constant learning led him to many enjoyable hobbies in his retirement years.

He is survived by his spouse, Donna G Cole; children, Nannette (Jay) Steadman and Gwendolyn (Reggie) Treese; grandchildren, Derek (Amber) Scott, Sammantha (Richard) Witt, Adrian (Brandon) White, Scott (Megan) Treese, Amanda (Keenan) Nebeker, Ashley (Caleb) James, JD (Shannon) Steadman; and 6 great-grandchildren and looking forward to the arrival of his 7 in September.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Harold Cole; sisters, Rowene St Clair and adopted sister, Maxine (Mickey) Smith.

A family memorial is planned in the spring. Frank will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kindness and his unwavering love for his family and friends.