Herbert Gerald Cole

November 1922 to September 2024 

Herb was blessed to have written the long story he did, with all its twists and turns, loves and losses - the story of a lifetime that was uniquely his.

Herb studied his passion, Architecture, at the University of Toronto and graduated in 1947. His practice took him from Toronto to Port Hope, Whitby and Oshawa, where he designed many local churches, schools, and custom homes, including his dream home for his own family. He married Mary Lewarne in 1952 and she aided him in the building of his Architectural firm, while, together they started their young family. In 1964, an opportunity to work on the new National Arts Centre in Ottawa brought Herb and his family to Ottawa. Following this, he oversaw the design and building of many Canadian embassies worldwide in India, Pakistan, Japan, Poland, Mexico, Brazil and Washington.

Herb’s hobbies were many and varied. One of his long time passions was collecting antiques. He was able to create a small business, Now and Then Antiques, to sell furniture and collectibles. Herb was also a true “foodie”, a gourmet cook, and a great pastry maker. In his retirement he took up gardening and he created a magical backyard retreat. His love for family history was seen in his creation of family keepsakes and his research into family genealogy.

Herb was predeceased by his parents, siblings and wife Mary. He is survived by his son David (Kathee), daughter Laura (Eileen), grandchildren Jessica (Derek), Kirsten (Hans), Derek (Ally), Judith (Ian), Keith (Zoe), Neil (Lori) and great-grandchildren Renna, Lachlan, Leopold, Sebastian, Ellis, Dylan and Kieran.

Many thanks to the staff of AMICA Westboro and his special companions Bob, Walter and Rosa.

In lieu of flowers, donations to CNIB would be appreciated.