Jim Cole was born on September 17, 1933 in Stigler, Oklahoma. He passed away unexpectedly in his home at the age of 77 in Shafter, California on August 10, 2011. Jim was the oldest of 8 siblings. The family moved from Oklahoma to California when he was 9 years old. After graduation from Wasco High in 1951, he joined the Army. He served as an Army Medic in Okinawa, Japan. Upon returning from Okinawa, he met and married LaVerne Liles in 1958. Their union was blessed with 3 lovely children: Scott, Jenny, and Pat. Jim worked for Belridge Water Storage District for 30 years when he retired in 1998. His favorite "job" was being a grandfather. He was lovingly known as Pappy to his 4 grandchildren: Sara, Tyler, Amy, and Sam. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Hub and Iva Cole, and brother Lowell. He is survived by wife LaVerne Cole, children Scott and Yvonne Cole, Jenny and Steve Bishop, and Patrick Cole; grandchildren, Sara and Marc Johnson, Tyler Bishop and fiancé Christina Brown, Amy and Sam Cole; siblings Bill, Kerin, Sharon, Judy, Sandra, and Tanya. A graveside service will be held Monday, August 15, 2011 at 11am at Shafter Memorial Park. Visitation will be Sunday, 2pm to 8pm at Peters Funeral Home.