Robert Cole Jr.

Robert “Coley” or “Coleware” Ernest Cole Jr. passed away on June 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born March 20, 1962, in Panama City, Florida, Rob’s life is marked by commitment, both to his professional career and to those he cherished most deeply.

Rob spent much of his childhood and early life curious about how things worked, taking things apart and putting them back together, a habit that helped him develop a wealth of knowledge. After many moves around the world, his family settled in Medfield — “Medvegas,” as Rob called it. He quickly made a strong group of friends, in addition to meeting his future wife, Lisa Coffone. When it was time for his family to relocate again, Rob decided New England was going to be his home.

Rob went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in computer science from UMass Amherst, a foundation that propelled him into a distinguished career in the field of computer engineering. He had a keen eye for innovative startup companies and recognizing opportunities others might overlook. Time and again, his instincts proved correct, as many of the startups he joined went on to achieve significant success.

Beyond his professional achievements, Rob found his greatest pride and joy in his children, Angela Nancy Cole, Robert Anthony Cole, Juliana Mary Cole and Melanie Rachael Cole. His hard work enabled him to raise them in Hopkinton so that they could attend one of the top public schools in the country, in addition to taking them on vacations to Nantucket in the summer and skiing in the winter. Robert encouraged each of his children to follow their dreams, providing the support they needed to pursue their individual passions and attend the colleges of their choosing. Just a few weeks ago, he proudly watched his youngest, Melanie, graduate from his alma mater, UMass Amherst.

Rob’s talent for figuring things out extended beyond his work. Whether it had to do with a car, finances, home improvement, a computer or driving through a snowstorm, his family and friends were sure he would be dedicated to solving any problem for them.

In 2023, Rob settled in Narragansett, Rhode Island, to fulfill his lifelong dream of living by the water and owning a boat. When he wasn’t coding software for submarines at Electric Boat, he could be found at home playing with his two beloved German shepherds, Layla and Lulu, or on his boat enjoying Narragansett Bay.

In addition to his children, Rob is survived by his soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Samantha Rachel Martin, his siblings, Erin Cole, Theodore Cole and Claudia Cole, as well as several nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Robert E. Cole Sr. and Carolyn (Gackowski) Cole, whose legacy lives on through their son’s enduring spirit and the family he so lovingly built.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his visiting hours on Monday, June 8, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. in the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory South County Chapel in Narragansett. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery, Wakefield, Rhode Island.

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