Cole, Edward William 'Eddie'

Edward William “Eddie” Cole, 74, of Cedar Rapids, died peacefully at his home, with his wife and daughters at his bedside on Monday, May 23, 2011, following a long illness. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, May 27, at Van Steenhuyse-Russell Funeral Home in Vinton with J. Steven Cole officiating. Memorial visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Ed's body has been cremated and inurnment will take place in Evergreen Cemetery, Vinton, at a later date.

Eddie was born Oct. 1, 1936, in Houston, Texas, the son of John Steven and Billie Fuller Cole. He graduated from Evanston High School in Evanston, Ill. He received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan.

Eddie held the Big 10 Trampoline Championship for three years in a row, 1957 through 1959. In 1959, he was also the NCAA Champion. Ed was a former world high diving champion as well.

Eddie was an entrepreneur, the owner of Chapman's Fun World in Cedar Rapids, and the inventor of Jumpshot, a popular fun center activity.

On May 10, 1986, Eddie was united in marriage with Linda Lyons in Vinton.

Eddie enjoyed golf, golf and more golf. He was an outgoing, charismatic man who adored his family and friends. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Eddie is survived by his wife of 25 years, Linda Cole of Cedar Rapids; one son, Bill Kielts of Florida; two daughters, Amy (Chris) Lynch of Pella, and Susie (Colin) Crichton of Cedar Rapids; one brother, J. Steven (Kitty) Cole of Lake Forest, Ill.; honorary brother, Peter Jacobs; niece, Brenda Cole; nephew, Steve Cole; three grandsons, Deckar, Nathan and Griffin; and three granddaughters, Megan, Lauren and Mallory.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Essence of Life Hospice for the love and care given to Eddie during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

Condolences may be left at .