Richard M. Cole, 96, of Whitehall, died peacefully Nov. 24, 2016, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Katherine Jean (Behrens) Cole. They were married 61 years. Born in New York City he was the son of the late Rufus and Edna (Gumble) Cole. He grew up in Michigan and New York.

After graduation from the McBurney School and Ohio Wesleyan University, he spent his entire working career as an accountant at General Electric in Bridgeport, Conn. and Allentown.

He and his wife were active members of Faith Presbyterian Church, Emmaus.

His many interests included reading, history, travel, music and sports. He greatly appreciated nature and instilled a love of hiking and camping in his family.

He is survived by his wife; daughters Pam and her husband Don Kienz, of Exton, Barbara and her husband Ron Schroeder, of Centennial, Colo.; son, Robert and his wife Nancy, of Lakewood, Colo.; seven grandchildren, Eric, Steven, Ryan, Ben, Haley, Ciara and Emily.

Contributions may be made to Compassionate Care Hospice or the charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Dec. 2 at the Zentz Community Center, 3020 Fellowship Drive, Whitehall. Arrangements were made by the David J. Boyko Funeral Home, 10 E. Main St., Macungie.