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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Hugh H. McCole

On April 21, 2020, Hugh H. McCole left this world for another. Born in Clifton Heights, Pennsylvania, Hugh eventually moved to Claymont, Delaware, where he raised his family.

He was a graduate of West Catholic High School and the University of Pennsylvania. At the beginning of his work career, he was a machinist, and then taught machine shop at Brown Tech H.S. before retiring as Vo-tech Coordinator at Delcastle H.S. He helped secure employment as well as advise students going to post-secondary school.

Next to his family, his main passion was golf. Very few courses going up and down the east coast did he not set foot on. After retiring in 1983, he spent over 20 winters in Florida and almost 10 more in Myrtle Beach–both golf havens. In his later years, it was not uncommon for him to score at or below his age in strokes. What was common about Hugh (known to his siblings as “Bud”) was his decency and desire to help those who needed it.

In his late 80s, he could be found volunteering at Wilmington hospital or picking up patients around his residence in Jupiter, Fla. He liked little fanfare, had a strong work ethic and never sought recognition for what he did. He knew his own mind and was blessed with good health and the ability to pursue his desires. Whenever he said he would pick up any of children, he never one failed to show.

He predeceased his wife, Dorothy McCole, ever missing her and is now reunited. After her death years later, he was married to Laura Hobbs, now deceased. Hugh is survived by his daughter, Kathleen Zaplitny, sons Joseph, Bruce (Brenda), William (Patricia) and Dennis (Edith) as well as granddaughters: Lauren, Megan and Elizabeth.

Funeral Services

A private visitation will be held from 10 to 11 am on Tuesday April 28, 2020 at the Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike. Private interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Condolences

    Frank & Helen Kromm lit a candle and writes,
    To Hugh's family, our heartfelt condolences for your loss. Hugh was our neighbor and we'll miss him. He was a kind and considerate gentleman, and a good neighbor and friend. We'll miss his remarkable stories, his decency, and most of all his friendship. Our neighborhood and building will miss him, and won't seem quite the same without him. Hugh was an "old school" gentleman in a world where we need more of them. We would pass Hugh frequently coming in and out of the building, and he always had a kind word and interesting story to tell. It won't be the same now without him.
    04/24/2020 08:39 am
    Bill & Mary Rhodunda nda lit a candle and writes,
    Hughey will be remembered by all of his golfing buddies at Rock Manor as a true gentleman. Hughey was a kind and gentle soul who never said anything derogatory about anyone. He frequently spoke softly about his strong faith and he earned a seat at the Lord’s table. God bless and keep you for eternity.
    04/24/2020 03:55 pm
    Larry McElwee lit a candle and writes,
    About 7 yrs ago I joined rock manor . That’s when I met Hughy, I marveled the way he carried him self on the course. Golf was invented across the pond in Scotland as a gentleman’s game. Hughy represented that perfectly, both on the course and off. I only knew him for a short period , however I’m glad I did get to know him . When I found out he was from Clifton Hts. (I’m from Ridley) , we shared stories about the old Tully secane golf course. Caddying at all the area courses(merion-aronomink- etc. we shared some great memories because my dad played Tully and was a caddy also. Hughy was a man of strong faith and now he has a new home in Gods kingdom. A true gentleman I’m blessed to have known him . Thank Hughy for the memories Larry McElwee
    04/25/2020 09:52 am
    Lou Masci lit a candle and writes,
    Hughey was a true gentleman and a man of faith. He could often be seen at daily 7'oclock Mass at our Church. On the golf course, he made me behave. When I played with him I tried not to curse or show anger. He was a Great Golfer and an even Greater Man. We will remember him always. Rest in Peace!
    04/25/2020 12:44 pm
    Stuart Hendler lit a candle and writes,
    I first met Hughey at rock manor about 20 years ago …. We soon remembered our Brown Vocational experiences and friends Howard Cassidy and Joe Bradshaw . He was a true gentleman and a good golfer. I will always remember playing with Ben and Hughey when won an outing on the ninth hole seeing how happy Hughey was made us all feel good . More than being a good golfer.....He demonstrated the outstanding character of A great man that we all Loved very much May God Bless him
    04/25/2020 03:25 pm
    Stuart Hendler
    04/25/2020 03:31 pm
    Bruce Fitzgerald lit a candle and writes,
    Mr. McCole was my machine shop teacher at H. Fletcher Brown Technical H.S. I found him to be caring, compassionate and a true inspiration. In addition, he was a no non-sense educator and true professional. I copied many of his traits into senior leadership with DuPont. I was fortunate to receive his praise along the way. I extend sincere sympathy and support to his family during this difficult time. Like me, I hope you find peace and comfort in your fond memories of Mr. McCole!
    04/27/2020 04:01 pm

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