Donald Richard "Don" Cole, 74, of Sandy Hook, died July 2, at his home, surrounded by loving family. He was born in Danbury, March 19, 1944, son of Reuben John Cole, Jr, and Ethel Emeline (Barrett) Cole.

Mr Cole spent his life in the Danbury area, graduating from Danbury High School in 1962. After graduation, he joined the US Air Force. He often regaled his family and friends about his time in the Air Force, particularly his time spent serving in Turkey.

When he completed his service, he returned to Danbury and began his career at Laser Optics. He worked there for 36 years, retiring as Optical Coatings Manager. He made many longtime friends in those years.

Mr Cole was a Mason for 43 years. He was a member of Union Lodge 40 in Danbury, where he served as master in 1980.

His wife of 29 years, Linda (Jenvey) Cole; children and their spouses, Donald and Kathleen Cole of Sandy Hook, Ty and Marikaye Cole of New Milford, Elisha Dage Murphy of Florida, Kristin Grauer of Bethel, and Jonathan and Danielle Grauer of Danbury; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a huge extended family survive him.

In addition to his parents, his first wife, Bernice (Masi) Cole; brother, David Cole; and sister, Ann (Cole) Theissen, predeceased him.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, July 10,from 4 to 7 pm, at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, with a Masonic service at 6 pm. A burial will be conducted for immediate family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Disabled American Veterans at dav.org or to Regional Hospice at regionalhospicect.org.