Joseph N. "Neal" Cole

Joseph N. “Neal” Cole, 96, of Dover, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the Inn at Northwood Village, surrounded by his loving family.

Born September 17, 1930, in Uhrichsville, Neal was the son of the late Joseph and Clara Brackin Cole. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Jay Cole, and his sisters, Alma Fulton and Betty Love.

A devoted patriot, Neal served his country with distinction in the United States Marines during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. Upon returning home, he built a long and steady career at GE in Dover, where he worked diligently for 37 years before retiring in 1993. Neal’s life was enriched by the things he held dear. He was a longtime member of the Dover American Legion, the Buckeye Horse Pullers, and the River Valley Antique Tractor Pullers. His deep love of horses shone through in the Belgian horses he raised with care and pride. He was also a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Dover, where he enjoyed the fellowship of the dart-ball team.

On May 26, 1956, Neal married the love of his life, Catherine Ranft Cole. Together they shared an extraordinary 70 years of marriage. He is also survived by his sons, Gary Cole of Scio and David (Emily) Cole of Bowerston; his daughter, Gale (Barry) Moore of Alaska; nine grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the Dover Burial Park, with Rev. Wesley George officiating. Military graveside honors will be rendered by the New Philadelphia VFW. The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Crossroads Hospice at 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr Ste E, Uniontown, Ohio 44685.