David Eli Cole, better known as Eli, was born on March 27, 1976, to Ralph Eli Cole and Delisca Jane (Young) Cole in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  He departed this life on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Northeastern Health System in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, at the age of 49 years.

Eli attended and graduated from Hulbert Public Schools, proudly representing the Class of 1994.  Shortly after graduation, he married the love of his life, April Harper, a true testament to the loyalty and devotion that would define the rest of his life.

Eli was a man deeply rooted in the land he loved, his family farm.  He found joy in the simple things; a quiet morning of fishing, hours spent brush hogging, or working in the hay meadow.  Checking on his cattle multiple times a day wasn't a chore; it was a reflection of his dedication and care.

Eli had a true talent for building and took great pride in crafting firetrucks for the Spring Valley Fire Department. A man of many skills, he could fix just about anything, and if you ever needed help, Eli was the one you could call and count on.  He wasn't just a neighbor; he was a cornerstone of the community.

Eli had a deep appreciation for history in his family, often referred to as the family historian, always ready to share stories and preserve the memories of generations past.  His relationship with horses was a bit of a love-hate one, but his fondness for Star Trek and Doctor Who always brought a smile and sparked great conversations.

Above all, Eli was a devoted husband and the best dad his children could ask for.  He never missed a sporting event, always cheering from the sidelines with pride in his eyes. His presence, warmth, and unwavering support left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Ralph and Delisca Cole; his maternal grandparents, Mary Jane Young and Clarence Robert Young; and his great grandparents, Dewey and Mae Young.

Those left to cherish the many fond memories of his life are his loving wife, April Cole, of the home; his children, Eli Cole and Alison Cole, of the home.  A host of nephews and cousins who looked up to Eli; and other family and friends too numerous to mention.

Eli will be remembered not just for what he did but for who he was, a loving man, a steady friend, and a true pillar in the lives of many.

The family will greet friends at a Visitation on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm in the Chapel of Mallett Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life honoring the life of David Cole will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 10:00 am, in the Chapel of Mallett Funeral Home.  His Uncle David Young will officiate.

Interment will follow at Hulbert Community Cemetery.  Those serving as casket bearers are Roger Ingram, Matt Turner, James McCully, and Spring Valley Firefighters.  Those serving as honorary casket bearers include Ronnie Smith, Rick Baldridge, Rex Jordan, Hayes Cousins, Bobby Young, and David Young.