Jackie Dewight "Jack" Cole, our beloved father--funny, kind, and deeply devoted--passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born in Spokane, Washington, on January 15, 1938, Jack was the youngest of five sons born to Newton and Etta Cole. He was preceded in death by his parents; his cherished brothers, Harry, Newton Jr., Gale, and Claude Cole; his granddaughter, Anya Grobstok; and son-in-law, Chris Hurley.

Jack attended Eastern Washington University and The University of Washington, and proudly served in the Naval Reserve at Naval Station Sand Point.

Raised on a farm, Jack's early connection to the land shaped both his personal passions and his professional life. He was an avid gardener and jack of all trades, and built a successful career in commercial real estate and development.

In 1962, he married Karen Bennett, and together they raised four daughters. He was an enthusiastic father and a perfect "girl dad", instilling in us a deep sense of curiosity, resilience and compassion. He had a knack for injecting fun into even the simplest objects and experiences. A full-sized parachute from his Navy days was a tent, a playground, and the source of countless backyard adventures. On family hikes, he brought the landscape to life, naming plants and sharing his knowledge. He was a curator of questions, not always knowing the answers, but always inspiring discussion.

In 1978, Jack fulfilled a long-held dream when he purchased ten+ acres in what was then rural Snohomish County and built a custom home for his family.

Jack had a gift for storytelling, especially when it came to jokes. Some were hilarious, some quite irreverent, and many were groan-worthy "dad jokes." All were shared with enthusiasm, received with laughter (mostly) and retold by his girls - and sometimes their friends.

Jack's legacy lives on in his daughters--Brynn (Mike) Telkamp, Regan (Chris) Hurley, Colleen (Kristen) Grobstok, and Heather Cole--and his beloved grandchildren, Banks & Jack Telkamp, Hans & Kaia Grobstok and Jane & George Hurley. He is also survived by his devoted friend and caregiver, Mitch Lumadeau. Their love for Jack was a testament to the warmth and generosity of spirit he shared with everyone he met.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.