GREENFIELD
James “Tee-Hee” E. Cole of Greenfield passed away Friday, February 10, 2023 at the age of 97. A lifetime resident of Hancock County, he was the eldest child of Noble and Bertha (Crider) Cole.
The nickname “Tee Hee” was given to him as a young man. Several friends were giving each other nicknames and because of his laugh, he became Tee Hee. Many people never even knew his real name, just Tee Hee. Debra’s Mother wanted to name her Tina Marie, but she was afraid that Debra would be called Little Tee Hee!
James was a proud Veteran serving during WWII in the Navy from 1943 to 1946 where he served as a Helmsman. When he returned home from the Navy, he obtained his pilot’s license. He was very proud of this accomplishment.
He and his father were Shelby County farmers for many years. He owned and operated Cole Gravel and Cole Excavating in Greenfield. He also hauled grain for many Hancock County farmers. In his excavating business, he worked closely with George Strubbe, his long time friend. He was responsible for the excavation of the hospital when it was built in the 1950s along with building the bridge that goes over the creek at the park where the pool used to set. You can look on the east side of the bridge as you enter and find his name welded into the metal. It’s beginning to get faint due to so many paintings over the years. He worked closely with the county and city on numerous projects over the years.
James was a member of the American Legion, Sherriff’s Association and the FOP. In the 1960s, he volunteered his time as a “Special Deputy” under Sheriff Bob Sebastian. He also would aid Bob Inman on runs when needed.
James led his life his way making numerous friends along the way.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother Hugh Cole; sister Martha Chapple; brother in law Rex Chapple; sister in law Phyllis Cole; wives Betty Lykins Cole, Ruby Helt Cole and Julie Inglert Cole.
Left to honor his memory and miss him is his daughter Debra (Kevin) O’Dell; grandsons Chad (Sally) Carlton, Lucas (Courtney) Martin; great-grandchildren Taylor Carlton (Bryce) Herndon of Arizona, Blake (Allison Able) Carlton; great great grandson Nolan Herndon; step grandchildren Jason (Kara) O’Dell; Kimberly (Ron) Brooks; step great grandchildren Miranda, Lisa and Aly Brooks, Rylee and Carson O’Dell.
A big thank you from the family goes to Cypress Run and Morristown Manor for the excellent care and compassion they have given Tee Hee for the past year and a half, especially to Shauna who always put a smile on his face.
Service will be on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Bell Mortuary &Crematory, Shangrila Chapel, 1444 West US Hwy 52, Fountaintown, Indiana 46130 with Visitation from 11:00 am until the time of service at the mortuary. Officiating the service will be Pastor Paul Galbraith of Brandywine Community Church.
Burial will be in Park Cemetery, Greenfield, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Indiana Sheriff’s Association at https://indianasheriffs.org/donations/
Please feel free to leave any memories you have online at www.bellmortuary.com.
