Obituaries

Maria Lee Cole, 77, of Toledo OH passed away peacefully at her home with her family by her side after a long illness. She was born on September 8, 1946 to Otis T. and Freda M. (Stevens) Hawkins. After graduating from Whitmer High School, she married the love of her life, David (Butch) Cole. Maria was a registered nurse and was employed by the Family Medical Center for many years, as well as, St. Charles and Toledo Hospitals.

Maria was known for her dedication and strong work ethics in everything she did. She was well respected by all physicians, colleagues and patients in the medical community. Maria enjoyed working in her yard, planting beautiful flowers and spending time with her family. She was always accompanied by her loyal German shepherd, Zoe, who was never far from her side. She also enjoyed traveling, shopping, decorating and was known for her famous “baked beans”.

After the loss of her husband, Maria went back to school to finish her degree. Always the hard worker, there wasn’t anything she could not accomplish when she set her mind to it. Although Maria was extremely kind and loving she was also known for her fun, feisty side. She was never afraid to speak her mind. Those of us that knew her well are going to miss her infectious laugh and hilarious, animated storytelling. Maria was faithful to God, her family, friends and neighbors. She was an inspiration to all who knew her for strength, integrity and love of life. She was a wonderful Mother, Yia Yia, sister, aunt and friend. She will be greatly missed by her family and all that knew her.

May her memory be eternal.

Maria is survived by her children, Lisa (Randy) Dazell, David (Deb) Cole and Chris (Marci) Cole, five grandchildren David III, Chelsea, Christa, Vivian and Lily, three great grandchildren, Cameron, Jaiden, and Elijah, sister, Patricia (Rick) DeLeon, and nieces, Becky (Brian) Barnes and Jessica (Keith) Curtis. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.

Funeral services will be Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 10:00 am at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 740 N. Superior St., Toledo, OH by Father Larry Legakis. Visitation will be 9:00-10:00 am at the church, prior to the service. Burial to follow at Toledo Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions in memory of Maria may be given to Ohio Living Hospice and the HSUS (Humane Society of the United States).

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.