Colette Cole

Colette Marie Cole, born December 11, 1934 in Saranac, Michigan, passed away on March 7, 2025 at the age of 90. Colette was the cherished daughter of the late Gerald Crane and Blanche Marie (Theisen) Adgate. She spent her earliest years assisting her father in his two businesses, Adgate's Grocery and Meat Store and the Saranac Café. As an adult, she dedicated many years working at GenCorp Automotive, starting in 1974 eventually becoming a third shift union steward, and later the chief union steward. Her tireless work led to significant changes within the union, transitioning from the United Furniture Workers of America to the International Union of Electrical Workers. Colette's commitment to her colleagues and her belief in workers' rights led her to participate in several union strikes across the Midwest. She was a lifelong Democrat, who actively volunteered in numerous local political and presidential campaigns throughout the 1980s. Before retiring, she served at the Ionia Hospital and manor. In retirement, Colette loved spending time with family, working in her flower beds, spoiling her beloved grandchildren and dogs. She enjoyed preparing large holiday dinners. She took pride in her gatherings and was a gracious host. No one ever went home hungry. She found a great sense of peace and joy working in her flower beds and at home. Colette was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Alan Philo Adgate; her sister, Jane Ann Chun; and her ex-husband/life long partner, Larry Duane Cole. Her memory is cherished by her children, Lisa Sayers, Floyd "Chris" Sayers, Stephanie (Matthew) Bour; her grandchildren, Andrea (Kevin) Lee and Elric Bour; as well as numerous sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, nieces, nephews, and extended family in Hawaii, Missouri, California, Michigan, and Kentucky. As per Colette's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Memorial contributions can be made to the Capital Area Humane Society or Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Christiansen's Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care. We invite all who knew Colette to leave their memories and upload photos to her memorial page, celebrating her life and the love she shared with those around her.