Basil Cole

Basil Earl Cole, 88, of Topeka, passed away, Monday, September 23, 2002 at a Topeka retirement center.

He was born January 10, 1914 in Jewell County, Kansas the only child of Arby F. and Loa(this is correct) (Oglevie) Cole.

Mr. Cole graduated from Lebanon High School, Lebanon, Kansas. He received his Bachelors Degree from Ft. Hays State University and later received his Masters Degree in Education from Northern Colorado University at Greeley, Colorado.

Following graduation Mr. Cole worked as a teacher. He later was employed by the War Man Power Commission in Hutchinson, Chanute, and Topeka. He served as Director of Personnel at the Menninger Foundation until his retirement.

He was a leader in forming and a member of the Hilltoppers Retirement Group at Menningers. He was a member and Past President of the Noon Optimist Club, Topeka. During his tenure as President of the Noon Optimist Club he was instrumental in helping found the Sunrise Optimist Club. Mr. Cole was also a member of First United Methodist Church, Topeka.

He enjoyed fishing, reading, and spending time with his grandchildren.

He was married to Ruth Timberlake, August 22, 1936 in Norton, Kansas. She survives at the home. Other survivors include:
their only child, Linda Cole Rubow Chanute, Kansas
three grandchildren, James Edward Rubow, John Charles Rubow III, Amanda Rubow Velasquez, and seven great grandchildren, Ryan Rubow, Michael Rubow, Desirae Rubow, Danielle Rubow, Darian Rubow, Devin Rubow, and Evann Velasquez.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 26, 2002 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Topeka. Mr. Cole will lie in state after 12:00 noon Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the Noon Optimist Club, and sent in care of Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. 1321 W. 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66604.