Recent graduate died Jan. 4

Brendan Cole, a 2013 graduate of the University of Richmond, died Jan. 4, 2014 from a cause that has yet to be reported.

During his time at the university, Cole majored in Politics, Philosophy, Economics and Law and was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and of the club lacrosse team.

Jack Leary, Richmond College '13, remembers Cole as a "fun person who was full of life." Cole was known for his absurd jokes, which often left people crying from laughing so hard, Leary said.

Leary also remembers Cole's love for his family. Leary said Cole knew of his parents' sacrifices for him and always "appreciated their unconditional love."

Along with an appreciation of family, Cole surrounded himself with a vast group of friends, said Nick Figliozzi, RC '13. Figliozzi lived with Cole for two years and was able to meet people he would have never known if it had not been for Cole, he said.

"Whether it be individuals from different athletic teams, members of other fraternities or sororities, or classmates of his, Brendan always made a point to introduce them to us," Figliozzi said. "It brings to light how many people Brendan was able to touch in his four years at Richmond."

Leary and Figliozzi were both brothers of the Sigma Chi fraternity with Cole.

The university community was notified of Cole's death on Monday, Jan. 6, and the University of Richmond flag flew at half-staff Wednesday, Jan. 8 through Friday, Jan. 10, in recognition of his passing.

A funeral mass was held on Jan. 9 at the Church of the Nativity in Midland Park, N.J., and interment followed in the George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus.

In lieu of flowers, the Cole family asked for memorial contributions to be made in Cole's name to Bergen Catholic High School in Oradell, N.J., where Cole attended, according to his obituary.

Contact reporter Rebecca Wilson at rebecca.wilson@richmond.edu