Robert F. Cole
December 23, 2016 - December 23, 2016
Obituary
MADISON-Robert F. Cole, age 93, died peacefully in his sleep on Friday morning, Dec. 23, 2016, after a rich, full life. He was preceded in death by his wife of over 60 years, Doris; and his son, John Robert. He is survived by his son, Gordon (Khristine) Cole of Lexington, Ky.; daughter, Kathleen (Lawrence) Becker of Montello, Wis.; daughter-in-law, Lisa Cole of Sarasota, Fla.; as well as seven grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren. Robert was born in Erie, Pa., to Harry and Vinnie Cole. He graduated from the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, Pa., after three years of service in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II he joined the flute section of the Philadelphia Orchestra in 1949. In 1962, he moved the family to Madison after joining the faculty at The University of Wisconsin-Madison's School of Music, were he remained until his retirement in 1988. During his years in Madison he played with the Madison Symphony and the Wingra Quintet. One of the founding members of the National Flute Association, he also served a term as its president. Robert and Doris enjoyed years of travel in their motor home, especially to the National Parks, and helping with farm chores alongside their daughter and son-in-law. He was a longtime member of Kiwanis, Toastmasters, and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, and a resident of Oakwood Village for thirteen years. A memorial service is being planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Agrace HospiceCare or the Oakwood Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608)221-5420
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Memories
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Lauren Brown
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Cole Family Memories
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Lauren Brown
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Barbara Prescott
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The most influential person in my life! I will forever be grateful for that.
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James Latimer
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Dear family of Professor Cole:
A beloved colleague and friend. I remember how Bob loved to dance as if no one was watching.
Our sincere condolences.
Jim and MJ Latimer
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Cristy Byers-Flum
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Dear Cole Family: When I was a vastly underachieving undergraduate music major--not flute, but piano and bassoon--I was at the receiving end of several of Mr. Cole's private "lectures". I listened intently, appreciated greatly, and eventually utilized his words in my own studio. His influence in my life cannot be overstated.
Cristy Byers-Flum
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Kathy (Cook) Moss
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Dear Family of Robert Cole: I will be forever indebted to Mr. Cole for accepting me into the graduate program at UW-Madison and I was honored to be his student. He was a wonderful teacher and was amazingly humble despite his great stature in the music field. There are many, many philosophies and concepts he taught me that are at the forefront of my teaching today. Mr. Cole was one of the most influential figures in my life and I am forever indebted to him. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cole family as they mourn the loss of their loved one. Kathy (Cook) Moss