Stephen David Cole, 93, of Rockford, died September 29, 2026, reuniting in Heaven with his beloved wife, Marie, who preceded him in death on May 31, 2026.

Born October 21, 1932, in New Auburn, Wisconsin, the son of Herbert and Adeline (Plante) Cole. Stephen graduated from New Auburn High School in May of 1951.

Stephen proudly served in the United States Navy. He retired from National Lock, where he worked as a machine setup operator. Retirement did not slow him down, and he later worked part-time for the Rockford Park District. A lifelong hard worker, Stephen continued working until the age of 90.

He was united in marriage to Marie Allen on October 27, 1956, in Pine City, Minnesota. Together they shared nearly 70 years of marriage. Stephen was devoted to Marie and lovingly cared for her during the final three years of her life.

Stephen was a member of the Belvidere VFW, Belvidere American Legion, and Belvidere Moose Lodge. He attended Mt. Olive Lutheran Church and Heartland Community Church. His generosity extended well beyond his family and friends. Over the years, Stephen donated an extraordinary 54 gallons of blood to the Rock River Valley Blood Center, quietly helping countless people in his community.

At home, Stephen enjoyed the simple things. He loved mowing his grass, feeding the wild birds, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. He was always willing to lend a hand to a neighbor and was someone others could count on when they needed help.

Stephen especially treasured his grandchildren. When they were young, he and Marie spent many hours babysitting them, and as they grew, Stephen enjoyed attending their school activities and being part of their lives. His family will remember a hardworking and generous man who showed his love through the things he did for the people around him.

He is survived by his children, Barbara (Michael Dreibelbeis) Cole, Sharon (Terry) Rudsinski, and Jeffery Cole; grandchildren, Heather (Travis) Jones, Jonathan (Samantha) Gentry, Trevor (fiancée Delany Sisiruca) Lutzow, Jeremy (fiancée Caroline Gasienica) Cole, six great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Joyce Nelson; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; several brothers and sisters and beloved wife, Marie.

Visitation will be held Monday, October 5, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 4301 N. Main St., Rockford. A funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m., with Pastor Violet Jonicker officiating. A livestream of the service can be viewed here: https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/362XBF Interment will be in Highland Memorial Gardens in Belvidere. Memorials in his memory may be made to the family. Share a memory or condolence at www.gracefh.com.