Obituary of Bert Coan

On Sunday August 20th, 2006, Bert Coan in the arms of his loving wife Janina "Dear heart" Coan, and surrounded by his family and friends who loved him Bert was passed to his mothers loving arms. Born in Everett Washington on May 2, 1949 to Margaret and Leonard Coan. His love and care he gave his parents until their deaths overshadowed his own needs. Hunting and fishing with his best friend Earl King was his passion. Driving his big red truck to the antique shops with "Dear-heart" brought him joy. His love of his children Rachael and Richard gave him strength. His grand-children who loved their "Grandpa Bert" gave him hope. The Sunday dinners with Jim and Nina Moore and visiting his second Dad and Mom Jack and Jean Sleeman brought him happiness. Visits from his Aunt Laureen Graefe and cousin Judy Smith of Missoula, Montana brought him laughter and fond memories never to be forgotten. He inspired us with his compassion and caring of his fellow man this was great gift that he gave us freely and asked for nothing in return. He was a gentle giant of a man. Honorable and courageous in his final battle. Berts long stories and practical sense of humor and the tricks he played on us will never be forgotten. Bert worked at Red Dot Corporation in Seattle since 1979. Dedicated to the company he considered all there his second family Overwhelmed by their support and love to him thru his fight with Cancer. He sends a "Thank you". Survived by his children: Son Richard and Megan White of Auburn, Wa. Daughter Rachael and Donny Claiborne of Black Diamond, Six Grandchildren Dianne, Courtney, Sydney, Marisa, Kerigan, and Drydon Claiborne. His cousin Pat and his wife Pam Cainan and Uncle Stan Cainan. of Missoula, Montana. Survived by brother Bill Coan of Newport, WA. Berts family would like to thank Dr. Kasubiah of St. Francis Hospital, and all the staff of Hospice of Tacoma who gave their support and loving care. Berts sends this message to all who entered his life: When I am dead Cry for me a little, Think of me sometimes, But not too much, It is not good for you or your wife or your husband or your children To allow your thoughts to dwell too long on the dead. Think of me now and then as I was in life at some moment which is pleasant to recall but not for long leave me at peace as I shall leave you,too, in peace while you live let your thoughts be with the living, for We shall meet again. MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD AT A LATER DATE AND ALL WHO LOVED HIM SHALL BE THERE.