Death Notices/Obituaries COLE, Jimmy
It is with the deepest sorrow the family of Jimmy Cole announces his death in Cavan, Ontario on Thursday, March 25, 2021. Jimmy fought a courageous battle with cancer, sadly this was the first fight this legend ever lost. Jimmy was the firstborn son, one of 17 children in Glace Bay, Cape Breton. He was the son of the late Silas and Mae Cole (Dearing). Jimmy loved his parents and entire family immensely, however, his Mama was special. He took care of her the best he could. Jimmy joined the Canadian Armed Forces at 16 and eventually was stationed as a gunner in Germany. Being honorably discharged at 19. Jimmy was very proud to be a Veteran. Jimmy did some coal mining upon returning to Cape Breton before moving to Ontario for the majority of his life. Glace Bay was in his heart forever and he returned home often. Jimmy was a father to four daughters, Tracy (Gian), Michelle (Barry), Lisa, Jaylene (Danielle); grandfather to Kristin, James, Cole, Olivia and Anthony, Eli and Riley; great-grandfather to Logan, Jack, Gwen and Grace. As his loving daughters we are heartbroken to lose him and know Heaven will never be the same. Jimmy was an amazing fun patient Grandpa and he will never be forgotten. Jimmy was their idol, larger than life. Jimmy will be missed by his brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law; sisters-inlaw; nieces and nephews, he truly was loved by all. We are comforted knowing his father, mother and some of his siblings welcomed him to Heaven. Jim was a friend of Bill W. and Dr. Bob, devoting his life to helping others. Living life One Day at a Time added up as he passed away in his 50th year of sobriety. Jimmy has many other beloved friends in Hamilton and Oshawa. Jimmy always rooted for the underdog in life and no matter what time of night someone needed help for sobriety he was there. He helped hundreds if not thousands get sober. Jimmy loved life and always lived it on his own terms. Music was a huge part of Jimmy’s life from playing the hotels, volunteering at nursing homes weekly for 36 years, playing for all at his much-loved trailer in Lakelet, Ontario where he had some dear friends (Ken & Jean Horton) or just sitting around with the family. His favourite singer was Merle Haggard. Jimmy taught his children and grandchildren guitar if they showed interest. Jimmy also loved to fish and he connected with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren through fishing. At 82 he became a TikTok sensation and was so loved by all of his TikTok friends. He loved to laugh and could have everyone in stitches instantly. Jimmy refused to discuss his illness. As he said I prefer to think positive so let’s plan out trip to Glace Bay and NFLD this summer which became our daily conversation. Your siblings love you and will never ever forget you, whether they lived close or far. Dad as the great Randy Travis said. We will love you Forever and Ever, Amen! Special thanks to Jimmy’s sister and brother-in-law Jenni and Charlie who delivered homemade soup daily for the last few months your help was so appreciated. Special thank you to Dr. Beamish, the nurses, PSW’s from St. Elizabeth for all of your kindness and help. To honour Jimmy please consider helping others in some way. Whether it be someone struggling with alcoholism, addiction, mental illness, homelessness or a senior that needs help. A private family funeral has taken place and at a later date there will be a celebration of Jimmy’s life in Hamilton, Ontario and in Glace Bay, Cape Breton. Please consider donation to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, any Canadian Legion Branch 58 or any community Shelter. Special thanks to my husband Gian Romanelli for loving and helping care for my father, he loved you.