Sylvia Jane Cole

September 21, 1930 – September 26, 2026

The family of Sylvia Cole of Elk Rapids is saddened to announce her passing on September 26, 2026, at the age of 96.

When her daughters were young, Sylvia served for many years as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader. A talented seamstress, she loved to sew, making dresses for her granddaughters and great-granddaughters and mending clothing for friends and neighbors. At age 54, she learned to drive—a task none of her children felt brave enough to teach—so she took driver’s education alongside teenagers. After earning her driver’s license, she began working at the Grand Traverse Resort, where she remained for 27 years.

Sylvia was a social butterfly who enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and neighbors, yet she was also a private person who valued time to herself. Her love for her family was immense, and she always did her best to ensure everyone was cared for. She will be deeply missed and remembered as a truly wonderful mother and grandmother.

Sylvia was born on September 21, 1930, in Cheboygan, Michigan, to George and Pearl (Davenport) Fexer. The youngest child and only daughter, she had three older brothers: Philip (Dorthy), Greg (Pauline), and Otto (Gloria) Fexer.

While working as a waitress in Mackinaw City, Sylvia met the love of her life, Victor J. Cole. He was stationed with the Coast Guard on the Great Lakes and had come into port. Victor brought her to Elk Rapids, and they married on December 14, 1951. Together, they raised five children.

Sylvia is survived by her children, Edward (Karen) Cole, Patrick (Carrie) Cole, Jane (Chris) Campbell, and Janet (Ronald) Bachi; 10 Grandchildren, Steven, Scott, Theresa, Amanda, Heather, Chris, Jessica, Derrick, Emily, and Brook; 12 Great-Grandchildren, Tessa, Harrison, Cadence, Logan, Jayden, Jace, Melony, Leandra, Lyrik, Astin, Max, and Lexi; one great-grandchild on the way; and several nieces and nephews.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Victor J. Cole; her son, Victor I. Cole; her parents; her siblings; her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In accordance with Sylvia’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. A private family burial will take place.

The family extends a special thank-you to the incredible people in Grass Creek at Meadow Brook who provided our mother with extraordinary care during the last few years of her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Sylvia’s name may be made to Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility, 4543 M-88, Bellaire, MI 49615.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com