Mary A. Cole, 99, of Sparta died Friday, March 28, 2008 at Franciscan Skemp Healthcare, La Crosse surrounded by her loving family. She was born on June 7, 1908 in Bangor to Anton and Annie (Karbula) Wavra. In 1909 the family relocated to Sparta where she attended Sparta Schools. She lived at the same residence for over 70 years.

     Mary was a faithful member of the Sparta United Methodist Church. She was also a volunteer for the Sparta Red Cross Blood Bank and a charter member of Sparta Senior Citizens.

     She loved life. She always thought of others; instead of herself. She loved her family and her wonderful friends.

     Mary is survived by three children, Bev (Alvin) Gamble, Lloyd J. (Lois) Cole, Mary Lou Cole; special nephew, Dennis (Peggy) Wavra; a son-in-law, James Kessenich; eight grandchildren; nine great grandchildren, and six great great grandchildren.

     She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd G. Cole; her parents, Anton and Annie Wavra; a daughter, Barb Kessenich; a son, Robert E. Cole; a grandson, Todd Kessenich; two brothers, Harry, William, and a sister, Dorothy.  

     Funeral services will be Monday at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, Sparta with Reverend David Carlson officiating. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Sparta. 

     Friends may call at the Lanham-Miller Funeral Home, Sparta on Sunday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and at the church “K” Street Chapel on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of services.

     Mary loved this verse.

     The Kiss of the Sun for pardon. The song of the Birds for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth.

     The Lanham-Miller Funeral Home, Sparta is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.