Cole Eugene Theander passed on to his Heavenly home on September 23, 2026, surrounded by family, after a long battle with cancer.
Born on December 1, 1960 in Denver, Colorado, Cole was the first born son of Bruce and Ann Theander. When he reached one year of age, Cole’s family moved to Portland and later settled in rural Clackamas, Oregon. He graduated from Clackamas High School where he met the love of his life, Julie Ruzicka. The two were joined in marriage in 1982 and soon added three sons to their family; Jonathan Eugene, Joshua Bruce, and Jacob Donald Theander.
Cole advanced his education first with Mt. Hood Community College and then with Oregon Health Sciences University; becoming a certified Paramedic in 1986. After school he began his career with Ballard Ambulance in Wenatchee, Washington. In 1988, Cole returned to Oregon working for American Medical Response, settling first in Gresham before finding his forever home in Estacada in 1994.
He was dedicated to his medical profession for nearly 40 years serving the community as senior paramedic. He loved being outdoors, hunting, fishing and logging, but family and his faith in his Savior were his greatest joy.
Cole leaves behind his beloved wife, Julie, three sons and their wives, Emma, Courtney, and Jenna, seven grandchildren and his siblings, Clay (Ruth) Theander and Allison (Kenneth) Washburn.
Friends and family are invited to attend Cole’s Celebration of Life services at Grace Crossing
Bible Church (29101 SE Eagle Creek Road, Estacada, Oregon 97023), beginning at 11:00 am.
Donations
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Joseph’s Indian School in memory of Cole. Please see link below:
St. Joseph’s Indian School