Cole Allen, 62, of Lignite, North Dakota, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in Flaxton, North Dakota.
Cole was born on October 27, 1964, in Mohall, North Dakota, to Kenny Allen and Bunny Rainwater. He grew up in Lignite, North Dakota, with his stepfather, Rodney Olson, playing an important role in his life. When Rodney later met Donna, she became a beloved mother figure to Cole, sharing a special bond with him throughout the years. His family also included his stepfather, Rick Rainwater.
Cole grew up in Lignite, where he formed lifelong friendships and graduated from Burke Central High School in 1983. A talented football player, he shared a special bond with his teammates and classmates, creating friendships and memories that would last a lifetime.
Following graduation, Cole attended school in Wahpeton to study auto body. In 1985, he returned home to work alongside, Rodney Olson.
In 1993, Cole married the love of his life, Bobbi Jo. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and countless memories. In 2001, they took over the operations of Lignite Oil, continuing the family business. Together, they raised two children, Jamey and Haley.
In March 2026, Cole proudly welcomed a new title: Grandpa. The arrival of his granddaughter, Lily Holen, brought a new kind of joy to his life. Although their time together was far too short, the memories they made will forever be treasured.
Cole was the true definition of a jack of all trades. There wasn’t much he couldn’t figure out, fix, or build. He had a natural ability to tackle just about anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether he was working on a project, helping someone out, or spending time with family and friends, Cole always found a way to make things memorable.
Some of the family’s most cherished memories were made at motocross tracks, where Cole spent countless weekends supporting Jamey and Haley as they raced. From long days at the track to the friendships made along the way, motocross became a special part of their family life and created memories that will be treasured forever.
Someone once said, “If you can’t have fun when Cole is around, you don’t know how to have fun.” Those words couldn’t describe him any better. Cole loved having people over, hosting gatherings, and being surrounded by family and friends. Whether it was a planned celebration or an impromptu get-together, he enjoyed bringing people together and making sure everyone had a good time. He had a gift for making people laugh, a generous heart, and a personality that left a lasting impression. With Cole around, there was never a shortage of laughter, good company, or stories to tell.
While Cole was known for his humor and larger-than-life personality, he also had a softer side that not everyone got to see. He wasn’t always one to openly express his feelings, but those closest to him knew how deeply he cared. Beneath his sometimes tough exterior was a kind and generous heart, and he often showed his love through his actions rather than his words.
Cole had more friends than he probably ever realized, and he touched more lives than he could have imagined. He was loved and respected by so many, not just for what he could do, but for who he was. His humor, generosity, willingness to help others, and unforgettable personality made him one of a kind.
Above all, Cole cherished the people in his life. From family gatherings and weekends at the motocross track to the everyday moments that meant the most, he leaves behind memories that his family and friends will hold close forever.
Cole, you may never have truly known how much you meant to this world, but you were our everything. We hope you can see just how deeply you were loved, how many lives you touched, and how much you will be missed. Life will never be quite the same without you, but the memories, laughter, and love you gave us will stay with us forever.
Cole was preceded in death by his fathers, Kenny Allen and Rodney Olson; his mother-in-law, Phyllis Hanson; his father-in-law, Jimmy Hanson; and his uncle, Milo Olson.
He is survived by his loving wife, Bobbi Jo; his son, Jamey Allen; his daughter, Haley (Kevin) Holen; his granddaughter, Lily Holen; his mother, Bunny Rainwater; his stepfather, Rick Rainwater; his mother, Donna Olson; his sister, Karla Biberdorf; and many extended family members, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Cole will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.