MUSCATINE, Iowa — The Muscatine community is mourning the loss of Tony Eugene Cole, 54, who passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital. Known for his warm personality, love of people, and dedication to the Special Olympics, Tony leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and joy.
Visitation and Service Details
Visitation for Tony Cole will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home.
A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery, officiated by Vern Cole.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to New Choices, an organization that played a cherished role in Tony’s life. Messages of condolence may be shared at www.wittichfuneralhome.com.
Early Life and Education
Born on October 27, 1971, in Muscatine to Vernon E. Cole and Terry Honea Hunter, Tony spent his childhood and adolescence in the Muscatine community. He attended Muscatine Schools, where he formed lifelong friendships and became an active participant in the Special Olympics, a program that brought him great pride and joy.
A Life Filled With Joy, Connection, and Favorite Traditions
Tony had a passion for bowling, one of his favorite pastimes, and frequently took part in Special Olympics events. He loved going for walks, chatting with others, and being surrounded by people. His warm, friendly nature made him someone who could easily brighten another person’s day.
He especially loved Christmas, a holiday that brought him pure joy each year. One of his greatest delights was the homemade noodles lovingly prepared by his aunt Sherry—something he looked forward to every season.
Family and Loved Ones
Tony is survived by a large and loving family, including his siblings:
Mindy Cole, Christy (Brad) Cole, Brandy (Matt) Everhart, Misty Cole, Vern (Dena) Cole, Dale Dodd, Lisa (Leslie) Dodd, and Michael Dodd.
He is also survived by many aunts and uncles who played significant roles in his life, including:
Norma (Tim) Stelzner, Dean (Beth) Cole, Sherry (Randy) Morgan, Kathy (Mark) Seefeldt, and Babbie Lambert, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who adored him.
Tony was preceded in death by both of his parents; his stepmother, Betty Burgess; his grandparents, Robert and Mary Honea and Ralph and Wilma Cole; and his aunt, Dory Stecher.
A Heartfelt Thank You
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the New Choices team—especially Joe, Jenny, Amanda, Marie, and Mark—for the exceptional care, compassion, and love they shared with Tony throughout his life. Their support made a profound difference and is remembered with deep appreciation.
Tony Eugene Cole will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his love for others, and his ability to bring smiles wherever he went. His presence will be deeply missed, but the warmth he shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
May he rest in eternal peace.
