Richard B. "Dick" Cole, 89, of New Castle passed away peacefully Wednesday afternoon, February 20, 2019, in Quality of Life Services.

Mr. Cole was born June 11, 1929, in New Castle, a son of the late Delace and Cora Belle (Cooper) Cole. A lifelong area resident, he graduated from New Castle High School in 1947.

Prior to entering the service, Dick worked as a supervisor at the former Shenango China, New Castle, where he was responsible for overseeing the dispersion of the gold used to decorate ornate flatware and china.

He honorably served in the U.S. Army, and was stationed in Germany following WWII.

Upon returning home, Dick enlisted in the Army National Guard. He was stationed at the Cunningham Armory for 35 years, retiring as a Warrant Officer in 1989.

He was a longtime member of St. Joseph the Worker Church, New Castle, where he served as lead lector, an adult acolyte and an usher.

He was a member of the Eintracht Maennerchor, where he entertained the youth as Santa Clause at their annual Christmas party for nearly 50 years. He also served as the Scout Master for the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 50, of New Castle.

Following retirement, Dick spent as much time as possible with his family. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, Delores, to visit their daughter in Hawaii; and especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. He will be remembered as a kind and gracious man whom made a point to put other's needs before his own.

His wife, the former Delores Wadlinger, whom he married June 24, 1949, preceded him in death September 19, 2009.

Dick is survived by two daughters, Dianne (Louis) Hamelly, of Chicago, IL; and Vanessa Cole, of Hawaii; two sons, Kenneth (Susan) Cole, of New Castle; and William (Linda) Cole, of Charlotte, N.C.; seven grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his wife and parents, Dick was preceded in death by two sisters; and three brothers. Memorial donations may be directed to Cray Youth and Family Services, 44 S Beaver St, New Castle, PA 16101.

Calling hours will be 10 a.m. to noon Monday (2-25-19) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 W. Falls St., New Castle.

Mass of Christian burial will be 12:30 p.m. Monday, in St. Joseph Church, 1111 S. Cascade St., New Castle, with Rev. Victor J. Molka, Jr., as celebrant.

Interment will be in Graceland Cemetery, Neshannock Twp.

Full military honors will be conducted by the New Castle Area Honor Guard.