Michael Dennis Cole

Mike was born on September 1st, 1945 in Portland, OR and is the youngest son of Orville & Helen Cole. After Orville’s passing at a young age, Mike was raised by his stepfather Howard Haynes and Helen.

He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1963 and worked at Fred Meyer warehouse before enlisting in the Navy where he served 2 years in the Philippines.

Shortly after retiring from the service, he met the love of his life Carol at an A&W in St. Johns, Oregon and they were married on October 17th, 1969 at St Brigitte Catholic Church in Linnton, OR.

Mike attended Portland Community College when he got his associates degree. In 1972 he & Carol moved to Corvallis where he continued his studies at Oregon State University.

In 1974, Mike & Carol returned to Portland where Mike went to work at Bingham-Willamette Iron & Steel. He worked there for 22 years and retired.

Mike enjoyed collecting books & records. He was well known at Powell’s Bookstore on Hawthorne and every Friday night you could find him at Music Millennium.

Mike loved riding his bike and running. He could always be seen riding his bike or jogging throughout St. Johns on his daily 10 mile route, stopping at any and all garage sales along the way.

Mike is survived by his wife Carol Cole and his 2 children Andrew (Steffany) & Dan.

He also leaves behind 4 grandchildren Christopher, Adrian, Forest, and Savanna.

Mike will be remembered for his love of the OSU Beavers, his collection of CD’S and books, and cheating at card games and various outdoor games.

Michael’s committal ceremony will be held at Skyline Memorial Gardens on Monday, January 15th, 2024. A Celebration of Life in his honor will be scheduled for a later date.

Michael (Mike) Dennis Cole is in the care of Skyline Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home; 4101 NW Skyline Blvd., Portland, OR 97229