Robert A. Cole

Funeral Services for Robert (Bob) A. Cole, 64, of Palatine will be private. Bob passed away on July 13, 2025, in Stone Lake, Wisconsin.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karren Cole; his daughters Melissa Busch (Brad), Heather Cornish (Calvin), Ashley McDonough (Nathan), and Kathryn Cole; and his cherished grandchildren, Greyson and Harper Busch, Blake, Brooklynn, and Temperance Cornish, and Eliza and Landon McDonough. Bob is also remembered by his siblings: Scott Cole (LuAnn), Sue Christiansen (Scott), Peggy DeVorse (Bob), Jean Michalec, Joe Cole (Sue) and Tom Cole (Karen); as well as his brother-in-law John Bihun IV. He leaves behind 16 nieces and nephews who will carry forward his memory.

Born on December 2, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, Bob graduated from Palatine High School with the Class of 1979. He went on to co-found Elite Cable—the first cable company in Palatine—marking the beginning of a long and successful career in the cable industry. His professional journey culminated at Comcast, where he retired in 2023 after decades of dedicated service.

In retirement, Bob found peace and happiness at his “happy place” on Lac Courte Oreilles in Hayward, Wisconsin. Surrounded by nature and loved ones, it was there that he embraced the serenity of lake life.

A lifelong fan of Chicago sports teams—the Bears, Cubs, Bulls, and Blackhawks- Bob’s enthusiasm for the game never faded. He remained active throughout his life with a love for fishing and a passion for sports including basketball, football, golf, softball, track and field, and baseball.

Bob had a deep affection for holidays—especially Christmas—and was known for his infectious belly laugh that could light up any room. Fondly nicknamed the “Pancake King,” he delighted in sharing snacks with family and friends. His signature “Chicago Bears Hugs” became a beloved tradition passed down to his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John (Jack) Cole and Nancy Glader; stepfather, Robert Glader; father-in-law John Bihun III; and mother-in-law, Ranee’ Bihun.

Bob Cole will be remembered for the warmth he brought into every room and the unwavering support he offered to those around him—anyone, anytime, any day. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8870786&fr_id=154020&pg=personal or https://diy-diabetes.donordrive.com/campaigns/robertcole or https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/fundraiser/6515443