LEBANON, Maine - Jack Wayne Cole, of Lebanon, Maine, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Jack was born in Rochester, New Hampshire, to Bernice Rand and Vaun Cole. He graduated from Sanford High School and continued his education at the University of Maine in Portland.
In 1967, Jack began what would become a long and successful career in road construction. Through years of hard work, dedication, and determination, he worked his way up to become Quarry Superintendent at Tilcon. Jack took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic, extensive knowledge, and willingness to lend a helping hand.
Throughout his career, Jack also found time to give back to his community, proudly serving as a local police officer, volunteer firefighter, and emergency medical services (EMS) provider. His dedication to helping others reflected his generous spirit and commitment to the community he called home.
Even retirement couldn't slow Jack down. With a lifelong passion for operating heavy equipment and a love for staying busy, he returned to the workforce as a crane operator for Moore's Marine.
Jack enjoyed being involved with the Shriners and the snowmobile club, as well as participating in Jeep hill climbs, ice racing, golfing and watching NASCAR races. He loved spending time at the casinos.
Jack also had a deep appreciation for nature and the simple pleasures it brought. He found peace and joy in watching the birds, feeding the chipmunks, and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. These quiet moments brought him a special kind of happiness and reflected his love for the world around him.
Some of his happiest moments were spent surrounded by family, whether gathered for cookouts, enjoying large family get-togethers, or making memories on family vacations. Family was always the most important part of his life, and nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with the people he loved most.
From his adventurous spirit and love of racing to the peaceful moments spent enjoying nature, Jack embraced life in so many ways. His love for his family, his many passions, and the countless memories he created with those around him will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him.
Jack was predeceased by his mother, Bernice; his father, Vaun; his stepmother, Geraldine; his father-in-law, Richard; his mother-in-law, Donna; his brothers, James and Sonny; and his daughter-in-law, Laura.
Jack's greatest pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Karen; his four sons, Jack Jr. and his wife, Lee-Ann, Jason, Jamie and his wife, Jen, and Teigan. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Gianna, Julianne, Kaylee, Caleb, Natalie, Hannah, Kaiden, Isaiah, Harmonee, and Wesley; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Emerson, Nolan, Elias, Nash, Harper, and soon-to-be Amelia.