Bruce Cole

Bruce Cole, 74, of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on May 8, 2026, after a long illness.

Born in Dover, New Jersey, Bruce was the son of the late Melvin Cole and Emily Allocco. He dedicated his life to public service and helping others. Bruce served with the Dover Police Department for 23 years, retiring in 2003 with the rank of Sergeant. Prior to his law enforcement career, he worked as a firefighter for the Dover Fire Department and Picatinny Arsenal Fire Department. He also proudly volunteered with the Dover, Lafayette, and Hampton Township Fire/EMS Departments and served as past Chief of the Hampton Township Fire Department.

Bruce was a longtime member of several organizations, including the Dover Antique Association, Dover PBA Local 107, Knights of Columbus, Hilltop Athletic Club, NJ/SC Blue Knights and Sons of the Legion of Wharton Lodge Post 91.

After retirement, Bruce continued working in security at Dover High School before relocating to Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. There, he enjoyed working at Ocean Lakes Family Campground and later with Allied Universal Security at Saint James High School. He especially loved interacting with the students and was known for his kindness, sense of humor, and caring nature.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 11 years, Alice (Ott); his brother, Richard “Dick” Cole and wife Cathy (Dauth) of Dover, NJ; his children, Jennifer (Cole) Vetter and husband Jason of Hampton Township, NJ, Allyson Cole of Delmar, MD, and Christopher Cole and wife Melanie (Hvid) of Mine Hill, NJ; and his cherished grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Kayleigh Cole, and Morgan and Nicholas Vetter. He is also survived by many loving nieces and a nephew; his father- and mother-in-law, Boris and Helga Cabanov of Jackson, NJ; sisters-in-law Karin Vogt (Kelly) of Bluffton, SC, and Kimberly Mollo (Jim) of Chatham, NJ. Bruce will also be deeply missed by his loyal dogs, Ollie and Toby.

Bruce enjoyed riding his motorcycle, fishing, boating along the Intracoastal Waterway, and camping with family and friends. He also spent many years coaching and mentoring children in youth sports programs while his children were growing up. He was a devout Catholic who deeply loved his country and proudly served in the United States Army for a short time following high school.  Among his other favorites were the NY Mets and NY Jets.  His family continues to hear stories from the many lives he touched through his generosity, guidance, friendship, and unwavering willingness to help others.

A Celebration of Life honoring Bruce will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Dover American Legion, located at 2 Legion Place, Dover, NJ 07801. A religious service will be held at 5:30 PM, with food and fellowship to follow.

Memorial donations in Bruce’s name can be made to Dover PBA Local 107, PO Box 1002, Dover NJ 07801.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guestbook, please visit www.burroughsfh.com

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Service (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.