Michael J. "Mike" Cole

Michael Joseph “Mike” Cole, of Delton, Michigan, passed away Monday, August 31, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born October 1, 1942, and graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1960.

Mike proudly served his country as a U.S. Navy radioman. He was on active duty from 1964 to 1966 and remained in the Naval Reserve through 1970. On December 3, 1966, he married Beatrice K. Danku. Together they built a life rooted in hard work, family, faith, and farming. They had two children, James Cole and Sarah (Cole) LaSalle. 

Mike began his career at Kellogg Company on June 3, 1963, and retired December 21, 1995, after 32 years. He was a member of the Kellogg 25-Year Club and the Kellogg retirees association. For many years he appeared as Tony the Tiger, and he enjoyed entertaining children and bringing smiles to their faces. Golf was one of his great passions, and he founded the Kellogg Corn Flake Klassic Golf Tournament. He was a former board member at Marywood Country Club and a charter member of Bedford Valley. He was an avid hunter and farmer. He enjoyed filming the Pennfield varsity basketball games. Mike was a dedicated board member of the Grand Trunk (Battle Creek) Employees Federal Credit Union. Mike was a member of the Pennfield Lions Club, where he served as treasurer and past president. He was also a faithful member of Pleasantview Family Church. 

Mike touched many lives. He was incredibly generous and always willing to help anyone in need. He loved his grandchildren — Josh, Emily, Joseph, and Zachary — and his great-granddaughter, Violet. He enjoyed watching them play their sports and activities. He is survived by his wife, Beatrice; son James Cole; daughter Sarah (Cole) LaSalle; son-in-law Nathan LaSalle; grandchildren Josh, Emily, Joseph, and Zachary; and great-granddaughter Violet. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Cole; his mother, Mary Jane (Grienenberger) Cole; and his sister, Eva (Cole) Alsbury. 

Visitation will be Friday, September 11, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Pleasantview Family Church with a Celebration of Life Service at 3:00 p.m.  A reception at the church will immedately follow the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Pleasantview Family Church or a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.