Eugene Ray Cole

Eugene “Gene” Ray Cole, 89, was welcomed home by the Lord on September 29, 2026, in Wichita, KS. He was born on August 19, 1937, in Winfield, KS, to William and Margaret (Wisner) Cole. Gene lived a full life centered around family, faith, hard work, and the relationships he built along the way.

Gene had a deep love for his family and a personality that was truly his own. Quick-witted, playful, and full of character, he had a way of making people laugh and feel immediately at ease. He was known for his singing, his mischievous send of humor, and a bit of sass, but also for a sensitive and generous heart. Gene gave freely of his time and had a genuine warmth that drew people to him. As he often said, he never met a stranger. Above all, he cherished his marriage of over 69 years and family time—sharing jokes, launching into song, and creating memories filled with laughter.

Gene loved rebuilding classic cars. His favorite projects ranged from a 1957 Thunderbird and a 1949 Willys-Overland Jeepster to an early 1980’s Mercedes Benz convertible. He loved taking wrecked vehicles and rebuilding them and always had an on-going project in the garage. He also loved to rebuild homes. An avid sports fan, Gene loved the Kansas City Chiefs from their inception. He was a huge fan of college athletics. For many years, he was also an avid tennis player with a wicked serve.

Gene was a savvy, well-connected businessman who had a natural ability to build lasting relationships and earn trust. He held sales manager positions from the 1960’s through the 1970’s with Volkswagen, Great Plains Equipment (Murphy Tractor), and others. From 1967 to 1976, he was Director of the Economic Development Commission in Great Bend. For his contributions, Gene received the Young American Award from the Business and Professional Women’s Association, the Distinguished Service Award, and the Greater Great Bend Award in the early 1970’s. After leaving the commission, he partnered in building a 115-acre housing development in Great Bend.

Gene served as Director of Business & Industry and active Booster Club leader at both Barton County Community College from 1984 until moving to Cowley County Community College in 1991. During those years, he developed employee training programs for GE, Boeing, and many area industries—partnerships that continue today.

Gene himself said it best, “My career’s been all about building relationships and trust. And never compromise your integrity. No one does things by themselves. If you develop contacts and trust in people, they are willing to help.”

Those who knew and loved Gene will remember his generous heart, quick wit, mischievous smile, and the unmistakable way he could fill a room with laughter. To his family he was Husband, Dad, Grandpa (Papa Donut), and Super Papa, each name reflecting a special place he held in their lives. He was a source of encouragement, humor, wisdom, and love, and the lessons he shared will continue through the generations that follow him. He built his life on relationships, and his greatest legacy can be found in the people he loved and the countless memories they will carry forward. His voice, his laughter, and his presence will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Gene is preceded in death by his parents William and Margaret (Wisner) Cole. He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Donella, four children; Denise Polt, Lisa Barton (Richard), Diane Watson, and Michael Cole, 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and his cherished Bitsy.

Celebration of Life will be held on October 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 8021 W. 21st St. N., Wichita, KS 67205.