“I kinda live where I find myself.” – Bob Dylan
William Cole Delmore was born on December 20, 1976 in Bismarck, ND and passed away on August 2, 2022. Cole is survived by his parents Marilyn (Oryn) Wagner, William (Stephanie) Delmore, his siblings Bill Axtman (Cate), Chad Wagner (Jamie), Shane Delmore (Erin), and Tana Sukauskas (Travis), and his children Grayson Rambough, Estella Rolando, and Teague Rolando.
Cole graduated from Century High School in Bismarck in 1995 and went on to study Philosophy and Theology at the University of Hawaii, Hilo. He then went on to study Journalism at Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. From there, he travelled throughout Europe before landing back in the United States, where he eventually made Bismarck his home.
From his childhood years, Cole’s genuine personality was infectious. Whether it be the raw satisfaction he felt when casting a fishing pole from the shore or a deep discussion about life, the nature of belief, music or the boundaries of reality, he appreciated both the simple and complex. Cole also loved animals as much as he did people. He kept homemade bird feeders on trees outside his windows and had nothing but love for the numerous pets throughout his life.
In high school, Cole pitched and played first base for American Legion Baseball in summertime and was a force for Century High School’s basketball team in winter. A lover of words and the arts, Cole would frequently buy books and random rap and rock CDs and loved quoting something from an old comedy or reciting every line from a Mitch Hedberg joke. Cole loved to write his own poetry and, in his later years, developed a true love and talent for painting.
As Cole’s life continued, he managed to travel around and meet folks wherever he resided for the time. He’d often tell his family about the amazing people he met along his life’s journey who each helped to provide unique perspectives of the world and of life.
While living in Florida, Cole owned and operated CD Agronomy and later managed a golf course in Pensacola. After moving back to Bismarck, he was Bar Manager at Apple Creek Country Club for several years. He later was Parks Director at Sleepy Hollow Summer Theatre and helped to rebuild the existing stage. He worked for H&R Block and loved to buy and sell items and keepsakes on EBay.
Cole was at his best around others when he got to banter, as his personality was truly infectious, sincere, and kind. His quick wit could immediately have everyone laughing, no matter the mood or occasion. He made a lasting impression with everyone he interacted with and he will be deeply missed.
A visitation will be held at Bismarck Funeral Home on Thursday, August 11 from 12:00-2:00 PM with a prayer service and sharing of memories starting at 2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree, wildflowers or native grasses to honor Cole’s love for the earth.
To view the funeral service, please click here .