Alanson G. Cole

Alanson G. “Lance” Cole was born at home on November 30, 1931 to Glen A. and Lena M. (Jones) Cole outside of Ainsworth, Nebraska. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on the early Monday morning of November 13, 2023 at the Rock County Hospital in Bassett, Nebraska.

Lance grew up on the farm homestead his father built, together with his four siblings. Lance was married to Viola Bodenheimer and to this union three children were born: Linda, Glen and Dale. After a divorce, Lance met Anita Wales. They were united in marriage and five more children were born: Steve, Joe, Les, Bob and Carrie.

Lance was a well-known character in the Ainsworth area community. When he wasn’t sharing endless stories and jokes with all he met, you would find him playing pool or horseshoes. These, of course, were a good source for some of his stories. He also loved to hunt and fish, and was usually successful at it. In fact, most of the time after returning from fishing, he would give away all of the “extra” fish to many people he knew.

Lance was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Lena; brothers, Earl and David; daughter, Linda; and grandson, Casey. He leaves behind to mourn his passing, seven children: Glen (Cathy) Cole of Long Pine, Nebraska, Dale Cole of Grand Island, Nebraska, Steve Cole and and significant other, Kathy Modaff of Ainsworth, Joe Cole of Winner, South Dakota, Les Cole of Colorado, Bob Cole and fiance’ of Norfolk, Nebraska and daughter, Carrie (Ben) Harry of California; along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two beloved sisters, Betty Wales of Bassett and Dona Gibson of Springview; two sisters-in-law, Judy Cole and Dorothy Cole, both of Ainsworth; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members.

A Memorial Service was held on Friday, November 17, 2023 at the Ainsworth Assembly of God Church with Pastor Gary Graesser as the officiant. The music arrangements included the CD Selections of “In the Garden” by Alan Jackson, “Amazing Grace/My Chains are Gone” by Chris Tomlin and “People Need the Lord” by Steve Green being played. A Private Inurnment will be held a later date. Memorials were suggested to the family in Lance’s name. Hoch Funeral Home of Ainsworth assisted with arrangements.