Obituary of Elmer Emil Cole

COLE: Elmer Emil Cole (formerly Schlapkohl) of Brandon, December 22nd, 1919 - June 5th, 2019. It is with great sadness that the family of Elmer Emil Cole announces the peaceful passing of our beloved Papa, on Wednesday, June 5th, 2019 at the age of 99 years. Elmer passed quietly in the comfort of his home surrounded by loved ones at his side. Elmer was born and raised on his family homestead in Roche Percee, Saskatchewan on December 22nd, 1919. He was one of five young men born to the late Henry and Bertha Schlapkohl. He is predeceased by his loving wife of over 60 years, Isabel Cole (English), sons Elgin and Keith Cole, as well as his brothers, Fred, Alfred, Arnold and Louis Schlapkohl. Elmer will forever be remembered by his 11 Grandchildren, 38 Great Grandchildren and 6 Great Great Grandchildren. Fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family and many good friends. Elmer was a kind, humble and selfless man who dedicated many years of his life to helping others. A Veteran and Prisoner of War for 3 years, Elmer was the recipient of many medals of honour for his service in WWII as a Churchill MKIII tank driver for the King's Own Calgary Tank Regiment at the Dieppe Raid in August of 1942. His greatest distinction and honour was being Knighted by the French Legion of Honour for extreme bravery. Elmer married his waiting sweetheart, Isabel, when he returned from the war, adopted and raised two loving sons, owned his own farmstead, travelled the world, volunteered and simply enjoyed life and all that was given to him. He continued dedicating his time to others his entire life and was a volunteer at Fairview Personal Care Home for 32 years, a member of the Kiwanis club since 1984, and an avid square dancer to name a few. He led a wonderful and fulfilling life with a family he adored and surrounded himself with whenever he could. Elmer found the light and optimism through even the darkest of days. His outlook on life has been an inspiration to those around him to take what life may deal you and make it the very best it can be. He always believed in and sought out the good in people and the world. He is our families' greatest treasure and our guiding star. We will never forget the lessons he taught us all. We would like to take a moment for a special thanks to Dr. Egan for her dedication, love and respect she's provided through the years. She has been a wonderful friend to the family and we appreciate all you have done for us. We would also like to say thank you to Brockie Donovan Funeral Home for their kindness, consideration and respect shown to us during this time. Please join us in a Celebration of Elmer's life at 2:00 p.m. this Tuesday, June 11th, 2019 at the Grace Lutheran Church, 3101 Victoria Avenue in Brandon, Manitoba. Interment will follow at Rosewood Memorial Gardens.