James Earl Coen

James Earl Coen, born December 2, 1949, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, at Independence Village Memory Care in Avon Lake after a long, courageous, and unfair battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Jim was a proud graduate of Elyria High School, Class of 1967, where he participated on the track team as a pole vaulter—an early sign of his determination and drive. He continued his education at Ohio University, earning a degree in Education, and later completed his Master of Business Administration at Baldwin Wallace University.

Jim devoted 40 years of service to Bendix in Elyria, building not only a successful career but lasting friendships along the way. His work ethic was steady and dependable—qualities that defined every aspect of his life.

A lifelong lover of sports, Jim was a longtime member of Oberlin Golf Club, where he competed in NOGA events, tournaments and local competitions. He cherished his early morning money games with the guys and evening rounds with his family. If there was a tee time available, Jim was likely already dressed and ready. Golf was his passion, his therapy, and occasionally his excuse.

He bowled for many years at Elyria Elks 465 and was a member of St. Jude’s Church—where he faithfully attended, unless, of course, there happened to be a pre-approved morning tee time that required his presence elsewhere.

Beyond sports, Jim was passionate about Ohio State, Thursday Guys Night, puzzles, and most importantly, spending time with his circle of lifelong friends. He coached all three of his children in sports and remained deeply involved throughout their athletic careers. As his kids became parents, he never missed an opportunity to watch his grandchildren compete, cheer from the sidelines, or help with carpool duties. Supporting his family brought him his greatest joy.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Charles Coen, and his sister, Molly (David) Charnes.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Vicki (Stough) Coen; his sister, Nancy (Mark) DeSouza; and his three children, Jill (Jeffrey) Pierce, Drew (Kristina) Coen, and Cris (Whitney) Coen. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Graydon (20), Gavin (18), Kaitlyn (16), Carter (12), Gage (12), Kenzie (12), and Greyson (6). He is also survived by his niece, Bailey (Danny) Reaser; and nephews, Patrick DeSouza and Matthew (Sarah) Charnes.

Jim will be remembered for his steady presence, quiet strength, kind nature, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the players he coached, the laughs he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

A visitation for close friends and family will be held March 12, 2026 from 3:00 pm until the time of memorial service at 5:00 pm at Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home 38475 Chestnut Ridge Road (at State Route 57) in Elyria. Following the service, the family warmly welcomes all who knew and loved Jim to join them for a celebration of life from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Black River Tavern at Valley of the Eagles Golf Club in Elyria.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support research and hopefully a cure for Alzheimer’s disease through: We Can Help Project 343 Crestview Drive Elyria, Ohio 44035

Though Alzheimer’s may have taken pieces of his memory, it never diminished the love he gave or the impact he made. We imagine heaven has a pristine fairway waiting for him.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.