Mark Monroe Cole

Mark is now resting peacefully in the arms of his Lord and Savior.

Mark was born in Fenn, Idaho to Coy and Christina Knorr Cole. Mark grew up in Grangeville, Idaho on the family farm. He completed his schooling, graduating from Grangeville High School in 1954.  He went on to the University of Idaho where he played on the Vandals basketball team. He graduated in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture.

On June 15, 1957, Mark married his high school sweetheart, Karen Mae Landreth. They made Grangeville their home until 1965 when Mark took a job with Western Farmers, moving the family throughout the Northwest. In 1971 Mark, Karen, and their family moved one last time settling in Walla Walla, Washington. Mark eventually went to work for Union Carbide as their Northwest Regional Sales Manager, retiring in 1999.

Mark was a member of The Church of Christ serving the congregation for over 50 years as a Deacon and Elder, as well as volunteering at Iron Dyke Youth camp for 15 years.

Both Mark and Karen enjoyed attending their children’s and grandchildren’s activities. Mark especially enjoyed visits with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He always had a genuine smile for them when they were around. A recent highlight was the birth of his 17th great-grandchild, who was named “Cole” in his honor. He loved to golf and would often play Rich for a beer—that was one bet he never lost! Mark and Karen also enjoyed going to Lake Roosevelt where they loved to fish for Walleye.

Mark is survived by his children, Kathi DeBroeck (Dennis), Richard Cole (Val), Michael Cole (Micky); 7 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and his life-long friend, Ted Wilkins. He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen Cole; his parents; his sister, Shirley Brinkman; and brother, Wayne Cole.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at The Church of Christ, 1556 Hobson St, Walla Walla on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with Pastor Rick Ashlock officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla WA 99362. In addition, friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.