John Martin Cole's Obituary
John Martin Cole, better known as Jack, was born September 24, 1932, in Dallas, Texas to Lester Martin "Red" and Ila Cole. He grew up in Houston, Texas, graduating from Lamar High School where he excelled in athletics and developed a love for learning. He earned a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas, then went on to complete a master's degree in Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After serving two years in the U.S. Army, he continued his education by earning a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School.
Jack married the love of his life, Linda Norwood, on December 27, 1956, in Mineral Wells, Texas. They were blessed with six children, 24 grandchildren, and 43 great grandchildren. Jack was a loving husband, father and grandfather who always put his family first.
After a 32-year career at Texas Instruments, he took early retirement and went on to serve for 15 years with Exchanged Life Ministries, a teaching and counseling ministry. He also faithfully served as an Elder at Fellowship Bible Church North for 25 years.
An avid hunter and fisherman, Jack loved spending time outdoors. He worked hard on his East Texas farm raising cattle, growing pine trees and making lasting family memories.
Surrounded by his loving family, he passed away peacefully at his home on February 18, 2026. Jack will always be remembered as a kind, gentle, loving servant leader and most importantly a follower of his Savior, Jesus Christ.
Jack found his purpose and identity in this verse:
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
Galatians 2:20
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