GARY R. COLE

GARY R. COLE
Jan. 16, 1948–April 30, 2022
The family of Gary R. Cole, 74, of Newcastle, Wyo., sadly announces the passing of their husband and father after a short illness.
Gary was born to Roosevelt and Ariel (Allen) Cole in Hot Springs, S.D., as there was no hospital in Newcastle at that time. He graduated from Newcastle High School and then joined the army the following January to serve his country. 
Returning to his hometown after service he married and had two children, Jason and Wendy.
An avid archery enthusiast since childhood, Gary was involved in several archery organizations during his lifetime. He helped start the local club, The Cambria Bowhunters, and was an active member for many years. A lifetime member of the Bowhunters of Wyoming, he served on several committees including one on suggesting archery regulations for the State of Wyoming with the Game and Fish Department. He was also a member of the Professional Bowhunters Society, a national organization. He became a regular member after going through a rigorous selection process. Bowhunting was among one of Gary’s favorite activities. The year was marked by what season was open, not the calendar months. Other pastimes Gary was passionate about included: rifle hunting, shooting sports, e-bike riding, motorcycles, skiing, snowmobiling, camping, side-by-side trips, geocaching, radio control airplanes, fishing, and sharing all these things with family.
He was very proud to have been a fireman with the Newcastle Volunteer Fire Department for 15 years, including being a captain. He spent his working years at Wyoming Refinery until his retirement. Spanning his 40 years there he held many positions, including shift supervisor and operations trainer, among others.
Gary met Sheila Lincoln in 1988 they married shortly after. They shared their lives and love of recreation for 32 years.
Gary is survived by his wife, Sheila; son, Jason (Patty) Cole, grandson, Ian, and great-granddaughter, Vanessa Cole; daughter, Wendy (Steve) Erb, grandson, Cole Erb; brother, Larry (Shirley) Cole, and sister, Nancy McVay, all of Newcastle; along with many nieces and nephews.
His motto was you only have one chance to live your life, live it to the fullest. And he did.
A remembrance celebration will be held at the Weston County Senior Services building, 629 Pine St., in Newcastle on Saturday, May 14, at 2 p.m.