Patricia L. Cole

Patricia Cole, 88, passed away Friday, October 17, 2025 in Pleasant Hill, Iowa.

Pat was born May 24, 1937 to Leo Huffman and Avis (Knight) Huffman in Des Moines, Iowa.
Patty graduated from East High School in 1955 and went on to pursue a career in nursing, completing her training at Broadlawns Hospital School of Nursing. She became a registered nurse and served at Broadlawns Hospital as both a nurse and a nursing instructor over the course of 20 years. Her dedication to caring for others extended beyond her professional life—she lovingly raised two sons with her husband, Marvin, and provided devoted care to her elderly mother, mother-in-law, and father-in-law.

On March 28, 1959, Patty married the love of her life, Marvin Cole, in Des Moines, Iowa. Together, they shared 66 joyful years, building a life filled with family, love, and adventure.

A talented and creative spirit, Patty was an accomplished seamstress who found joy in sewing dresses and T-shirts for her loved ones. Her beautiful counted cross stitch artwork decorates the homes of many family members, serving as lasting reminders of her care and craftsmanship. She also enjoyed cooking and canning, thoughtfully passing down cherished recipes to her children and grandchildren.

Patty was an avid league bowler, proudly carrying a 160 average over several years. She and Marvin bowled together on a co-ed team for five years and also shared a love for square dancing, participating in a club for a decade and even attending a national convention at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa.

Together with their sons, Patty and Marvin created countless cherished memories during annual family vacations to Table Rock Lake, Missouri—an enduring tradition that lasted 30 years. Water skiing, fishing, and spending time on the lake became beloved parts of their family story.

Patty also loved playing cards with friends and family, enjoying the companionship and laughter that came with every game.

She will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, dedication to family, and the warmth she brought to everyone she met.

She is survived by her husband, Marvin Cole; son, Marvin (Linda) Cole Jr.; grandchildren, Amber (Seth) Meyer and Eric (Amanda) Cole; great-grandchildren, Aidan Cole and William Meyer.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert Huffman, and son, Brian Cole.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 24, 2025 at Trinity on Fifth, 602 5th Avenue SW in Altoona, Iowa with visitation one-hour prior at 10:00 a.m. A lunch will follow the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Care Initiatives Hospice or John Stoddard Cancer Center.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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