Richard (Dick) H. Cole, 95, a lifelong resident of Millbrook was called home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. He passed away surrounded by love and his family, both blood and the amazing caregivers at Lutheran Care Center and Hudson Valley Hospice.

He was born in Poughkeepsie to the late John and Florence Cole.  He married Alyce (Poochie) Chadwell, on August 14th, 1955 in Millbrook.  Poochie, his wife of 64 years at the time of her passing, was called home on May 31st, 2019.  Richard is survived by his two children.  Brenda (Cole) DeLuca and her husband, Michael, of Poughkeepsie,  and, John Cole of Poughkeepsie.  He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Briana (Bri) DeLuca and her boyfriend, Eric Kidney, of Poughkeepsie/Pleasant Valley,  Jacob (Jake) DeLuca and his wife, Jasmine, of Norfolk, Virginia, and Leah Cole and her boyfriend, Rob Nicodemo, of Poughkeepise.

Richard, or "Great Grand Poppy" had the ultimate joy of his life and heart to meet and spend time with his beloved Great Granddaughter, Sophia (Sassy) DeLuca of Norfolk, Virginia and also, Jack, his beloved four - legged companion.

Richard is preceded by his oldest brother, Jack and his twin brother, Robert.  He is survived by several nieces and nephews and their children and childrens' children.  An amazing, big, wonderful family.
Dick was a Jack of all Trades and Master of Many, all of which he did "My Way".
He attended Millbrook Central Schools and left on February 16, 1951 to proudly serve this Country in the U.S. Army.  Private 1st Class Cole, returned on February 16, 1953 and soon thereafter, married "his Poochie".  He worked for the Town of Washington, Millbrook School District, and, many estates and beautiful homes and properties in Millbrook have Dick to thank for their pristine lawns, hedges and landscaping.  Dick had at least 7 side jobs mowing and trimming.  They were more of a hobby along with hunting. Always in search of the BIG ONE!

Richard spent his pre retirement years at his most happy place, The Clove Valley Rod and Gun Club working beside family and his very best friend, Carl Klaproth, Sr.  He got to work with his beloved dogs as they hunted with the members.  He took care of thousands of ducks and took such pleasure in beautifying the Club grounds every chance he got.

Dick was a solitary man with a tremendous love and respect for the outdoors.  He could be as gentle as a Summer evening breeze and as solid and strong as his many cement projects.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, October 7 from 4 – 8 pm at Allen Funeral Home, 3270 Franklin Ave., Millbrook. A funeral service will follow on Tuesday, October 8 at 10 am from Lyall Memorial Federated Church, 30 Maple Ave., Millbrook. Interment will be in Nine Partners Cemetery, Millbrook. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.www.woundedwarriorproject.org