Joseph Martin Coogan

Obituary Joseph Martin Coogan March 29, 1937 - August 3, 2017 Joe Coogan was born in Yakima, Washington, the third son of Michael E. and Amy P. Coogan. He was proceeded in death by his parents and oldest brother John M. Coogan. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Judith, and his brother Patrick C.; his three cousins, Nancy Clealand, James Callagham, and Joan Brinker; his three children, Carrie (Steve) McDougall, Molly Hess (John Mendiola), and Martin Coogan (Tom Joseph); his three grandchildren, Jesse and wife Jessie Keating, Alexandra Hess, and Austin Mendiola; and six great-grandchildren, Eamon, Finian, Kingston, Calliana, Elsie, and Emery. Joe as a child lived in Yakima and Spokane before he started grade school in Seattle. He graduated from Seattle Prep in 1955 and from St. Martin's University, where he served as Senior Class President, in 1960 with a degree in Accounting. After a short tour in the US Army in San Francisco, he had various sales positions in Walla Walla, before his career in Computer Science that spanned from Texas, Alabama, California, and then finally back in Washington, where he worked for the State as a Computer Analyst until he retired. In addition, Joe enjoyed many years teaching night school before and after his retirement for Saint Martin's, and Olympic College On-line courses for American Soldiers serving overseas. As a young man, Joe enjoyed flashy cars and never outgrew that passion his entire life. His wife and family came first, and he maintained good friends from school and business. His wicked sense of humor was a constant throughout his lifetime. In his later years, he enjoyed traveling with his wife and spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His last few years challenged Joe with many health issues, which he responded with grace and patience. Not one to ever complain, in fact he enjoyed kidding all those around him, and was especially beloved by all those that cared for him throughout his final days. His family would like to thank the compassionate staff at Puyallup Nursing and Rehabilitation, as well as his faithful home care givers, Mona and Latasha. A Celebration of Joe's Life will be held September 10, 2017, from 1:00-4:00pm at Tugboat Annie's, 2100 Westbay Drive, Olympia, WA Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home