Ralph Eli Cole was born November 20, 1953 at Fort Chaffee in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Eli Samuel Cole and Kathleen Mae (Smith) Cole. The family was stationed in Germany and then moved back to the States when his dad was stationed at Fort Sill, in Lawton, OK for the remainder of his service in the U.S. Army, until his retirement in 1969, when they moved to Wagoner, OK. Ralph then attended Wagoner High School, graduating in the Class of 1972.

Ralph joined the U.S. Army in 1972 at Fort Leonard Wood. He qualified for West Point Academy because of his high IQ and military background. Following his Honorable Discharge Ralph began working at Safeway (later Homeland) in Wagoner. He was a dedicated worker, starting as a stock boy and working his way all the way to assistant manager before early retirement at age 36.

After retiring Ralph enjoyed fishing and camping outdoors. He loved to go flea marketing and antiquing to find that special treasurer. He loved his cars and sports cars, and he liked them to be fast. He drove his cars like he loved his life-fast and furious.

Ralph's favorite sayings were "I can't get no satisfaction", and "when Money is involved, friendship ceases." But, these sayings did not really apply to his way; the way he lived his life showed he was a very caring man. He was tender hearted and would help out anyone he thought might need it.

Ralph married Delisca Jane (Young) Cole in 1975. They had one son in 1976, David Eli Cole. They renewed their vows in 1995. Ralph became a resident of the Lost City community near Hulbert, OK.

Ralph departed this life January 1, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, and is survived by his loving wife, Delisca, of the home.

A Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM Wednesday, January 4, at Mallett Funeral Home and Crematory in Wagoner.

The Funeral Service will be at 10:00 AM Thursday, January 5, 2017 at the Chapel of Mallett Funeral Home and Crematory. Interment will be in Hulbert Community (IOOF) Cemetery. Calvin Cole will officiate. Pallbearers will be Ron Hayes, Michael Linehan, Greg Milsap, Carl Boyd, Jeff Halfacre and Chris Halfacre.