Wilbur Francis (Jack) Coon

Wilbur Francis (Jack) Coon, 93, of Ashley, passed away with his family by his side on October 9, 2010. 

Jack was born on September 23, 1917 to George and Julia (Currey) Coon. He married Purnie Massey on June 18, 1945 in Memphis, TN. Together they shared 63 years of marriage.

Jack was a United States Navy veteran serving during WWII. After 20 years of service, Jack retired from the Navy, working as a millwright and farmer. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt, fish, cut wood, and share stories with friends.

Not only was Jack a proud member of the Navy, but also a Past Master of Ashley Masonic Lodge #399 and a member of Ithaca Masonic Lodge #123.

Jack will be lovingly remembered by his sister; Madeline Lincoln of Alma, a son Paul (Joy) Coon of Pompeii; two daughters Ruby Mason (Ted Zimmerman) of Ithaca and Patricia (Lee) Goodrich of Battle Creek. Five grandchildren, Nikki (Mike) Sparks, Joel (Teresa) Peters, Alison Peters, Sarah (Jason) Warren, and Trevor (Tailor) Bentley. Six great grandchildren; Sidney and Tristan Sparks, Lincoln Peters, Emily Maul, Kimberley Colon, and Melanie Warren. Also many nieces, nephews, and good friends.

Jack was preceded in death by his wife Purnie, five sisters, and three brothers.

Funeral services will be held at the Barden Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 13, at 11am. Pastor Joe Robbe will officiate, and burial will follow at North Star Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-4pm and 7-9pm on Tuesday, October 12 at the funeral home. A Masonic service will also be held at 6pm on Tuesday. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ithaca Masonic Lodge #123 or to a place of the donor’s choice.