Richard Edward Cole, 68, of Mattapoisett, passed away on Wednesday morning, August 29, after a period of failing health. Rick was born in Brockton, MA on May 14, 1950 (Mother’s Day that year) and grew up in Bridgewater, graduating from Bridgewater-Raynham Regional High School in 1968. After graduation, he served 4 years in the US Coast Guard. In 1973 he began working in the maintenance department at Maritime Terminal (currently Maritime International Inc.) in New Bedford. He rose through the ranks, becoming Vice President of Engineering, the position he held at the time of his retirement in 2005. From 2007-2015 he was the owner of Rick’s Tavern in Mattapoisett.
Rick’s lifelong love of the ocean, boating and fishing brought great joy to his life. He was happiest when he could share this with his family and friends. We all loved to get the call to meet him at the dock. The sword from the 525lb swordfish he harpooned off the Dumping Grounds still has a place of honor over the fireplace. Rick was also a skilled woodworker. His desire for perfection is evident in each piece he made. They will be treasured heirlooms.
Rick was a loving husband, father, brother, son and loyal friend who will be greatly missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William Edward and Marie Sonia Cole, and his brother, William Paul Cole.
He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Jean M. Cole; two sons, Richard and Thomas; one daughter, Sandra Dzialo (Jerry); his grandson, Andrew Berberian; his sister, Catherine Reed; and nieces and nephews, Matthew Reed, Caroline Schulz, Emily Gould and William Cole.
His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, September 8th at 11 am in St. Anthony’s Church in Mattapoisett. Visiting hours are omitted. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Route 6, Mattapoisett. For online please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
