Richard Alan Cole

Richard Alan “Rick” Cole died after a hard fought battle with cancer on May 5, 2021 at home. He was born on September 28, 1951 in Hampton, Virginia to Keith and Rita Cole.

He graduated from Penney High School in Hamilton, Missouri. He attended Missouri Western College and served in the Army National Guard. After his service he moved to Columbia where he met and married Gayle.

He retired from the University of Missouri and continued with his antique and auction business. His two passions in life were his auction business with his son Jason and visiting his daughter Carrie and her family on the east coast. However, his greatest joy was his grandchildren.

Rick is survived by his wife, Gayle Brubaker Cole; daughter Carrie (Michael) Riccio of Quantico, Virginia; son Jason (Amber) Cole of Columbia, Missouri.

He will be living forever in the hearts of his grandchildren: Olivia, Eden and Hudson Riccio, Addilyn Warren and Belle Marie Cole. Also surviving is brother Larry (Peggy) Cole of Hamilton, Missouri; brother-in-law John (Shelley) Brubaker of Wentzville, Missouri; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents Keith and Rita Cole, Hamilton, Missouri; his in-laws, John and Carrie Brubaker, Centralia, Missouri; sister Vickie Cole; and infant son Richard Alan Cole, Jr.

There will be a family graveside service in Hamilton, Missouri at a later date. Heartland Cremation is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences

  1. Marcia and Ted Ayres on May 12, 2021 at 5:13 pm

    Gayle and family:

    Rick was a life-long friend and Marcia and I have so many memories of good times, great laughs and once-in-a lifetime experiences! The trip to Notre Dame (to see the Tigers win)…the fabulous trip to Lawrence to see the Tigers play KU (“Shoot the Gate at 98!,” “Save us Mr. Lincoln,” “Tomato Races” and “Morgan the pet Raccoon”)… the trip to the Emergency Room at MU Hospital after a post-game “reenactment” on Faurot Field (“you guys go on…I will be okay”)…the trip to Boulder in the white van…the “Super Season of ’75” that always ended at Hotel Cole…your wedding…and so much more!

    Rick was loved by so many and he will be missed by so many…but he will be remembered by all who knew him. Our deepest and most sincere condolences to you all at this sad time…he fought so hard to stay with you/us.



  2. J.L. and Shelley Brubaker on May 12, 2021 at 5:20 pm

    While we were not close, Shelley and I always liked and respected Rick. We offer our condolences and prayers.



  3. Christy Witte on May 12, 2021 at 7:04 pm

    Our hearts go out to you! Rick was such a kind hearted man! Dwaine loved working with him! They had such fun! What a smile he had! Love to you and your beautiful family.



  4. Susan Koprivica on May 12, 2021 at 7:43 pm

    Gayle , Jason, Carrie, and children, I am so very sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. My prayers are for your family to find comfort and peace in all your cherished memories. He was a fine person and will be missed by many.



  5. Pat Overshiner on May 12, 2021 at 7:57 pm

    So sorry to hear Rick passed. He was so funny and fun. Im sure the grandkids so loved him
    He probably kept them totally entertained. May each day get better for you and your family.



  6. sherrill roberts on May 12, 2021 at 10:20 pm

    You and your family are in my heart and prayers. I didn’t know Rick very well, but I feel like I know Gayle. I wish all of you well. So sorry for your loss.



  7. Sue McGraw on May 13, 2021 at 8:22 am

    Gayle, Sorry to hear of your husband passing. My thoughts are with you.



  8. James and Diana Radabaugh on May 17, 2021 at 4:31 pm

    Gayle and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rick was a great guy with a bigger than life personality. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. May comfort and memories bring healing to your hearts.



  9. VICKI L MANSFIELD on May 20, 2021 at 9:05 pm

    I am so sorry for the loss of Rick. I don’t know any family, as I was just an acquaintance of Rick through the auctions. He had such a winning personality and made everyone he met a friend. It could be a dull sale and he would bring the spark. You lost a good man. Prayers to all.



  10. Russell McCampbell on May 29, 2021 at 10:46 pm

    Gayle and Jason, I missed any notification of Rick’s passing earlier this month. I just came across a notification on the Cole and Kemper Auction Service. My heart sank. Wanda and I are so sorry for your loss. All of the other condolences sum up my feelings about brining an auction to live and his great personality and great smile. Your names will appear in my daily prayer bowl.



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