EASTPORT – Thomas P. Cole, 68, husband of Sharon (Arsenault) Cole, died unexpectedly May 7, 2010. Tom was born and raised on Deer Isle, son of Emery and Virginia Cole, who are both deceased. He attended school in Deer Isle, graduating in 1959. As a teenager Tom was an exceptional golfer winning the President’s Cup Tournament at Deer Isle County Club three times. Tom graduated from the University of Maine in 1965 and was employed by the University throughout his career. A love of antiques spurred a second career as he and Sharon owned and operated Center Mall, Brewer. Tom’s love of the Maine coast started as a child in Deer Isle and brought him to Eastport to retire in 2003. His loves were few and simple: Sharon, his family, his dogs, his yard and gardens, and his workshop. People who knew Tom will remember him for his quiet nature, insightful comments, depth of character as a friend or colleague, and dry, dry, dry sense of humor followed by a small quirky smile. Survivors include his wife of 30 years, Sharon; his son, Chris and his wife, Tascia, and their children, Courtney, Lindsey and Kelsey, all of York; his daughter, Jackie Spathakis and her husband, Charles, and their children, Cole and Emma, all of Stonington, Conn.; and stepson, Matt Powers and his wife, Brooke, and their children, Logan, Lydia and Landon, all of Monroe. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, May 11, at the Reception Rooms of Brookings-Smith, Clark-Piper Chapel, 55 South Main St., Brewer. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Paws Humane Society, 84 South St., Calais, ME 04619. Arrangements are in the care of Brookings-Smith and Mays Funeral Home, Calais and Eastport. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.maysfuneralhome.com.
THOMAS P. COLE
