Walter H. Cole Sr., 79, of 121 Park Road, Woodbury, passed peacefully Monday, September 12, 2011 with his loving wife of 54 years, Alice, by his side. Walter is predeceased by 7 of his 16 siblings. Born in Milford, Walter eventually settled in Woodbury to become part of the family lumber business. Walter served in the Army during the Korean Conflict. After his discharge, he returned home to marry his childhood sweetheart. A quiet man who led by example and not words, he will be remembered for his profound love of his family and also his love of the woods and animals. Instead of giving up on life after his diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, he chose to live the new life God gave him with courage and strength never complaining, just happy to witness the marriages of his children and the birth of his grandchildren.

Along with Alice, Walter leaves behind his three children and 7 grandchildren. His oldest son, Walter H. Cole, Jr., his wife Rita and sons Daniel, Kevin and Nathan; his daughter, Donna Schatzlein, her husband Lee and daughters Jeni, Kelly and Kristin, and his son David, his wife Gayle and son Matthew. He will be sadly missed but lovingly remembered by them. He also leaves behind four brothers, Donald, Harold, William and Arthur and four sisters, Shirley, Dorothy, Nancy and Judy.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National MS Society, CT Chapter, 659 Tower Ave., First floor, Hartford, CT 06112 or online at www.nationalmssociety.org.

Cemetery: New North Cemetery

Location: Munson-Lovetere Woodbury

Funeral: Church Not Applicable

Services: A graveside service with military honors will be held at New North Cemetery, Washington Avenue, Woodbury on Saturday September 17th at 11 a.m. for those who wish to join the family to celebrate his life.

Visitation: There are no calling hours.