The Cole Land Transportation Museum staff announced today that founder, Galen Cole, has died.

Galen Cole was a local icon, bringing the community together in a variety of ways. He collected a huge selection of historical vehicles, in 1989, to create the Cole Land Transportation Museum. Teachers were invited to bring their students on field trips, and provided scavenger hunts, to make the visits even more fun for children. He honored Veterans with memorials set up on the museum grounds, and provided them with special walking sticks.

Born in 1925, Cole worked for his father's company, Cole Express delivery company, until leaving to serve in World War II. Upon his return from the war, he became President of Cole Express and served on the Bangor City Council. All of these accomplishments are a small representation of his impact on the community and he will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Mr. Cole. Thank you for your amazing contributions.

In a post on the museum's Facebook page, staff members say his foundation and museum will continue for generations to come. Memorial services are planned for January 25th at 11 a.m., at the Shriner's Hall, 1404 Broadway in Bangor.

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