Gene Coons

Send Flowers Gene Earl Coons August 8, 1919 - June 3, 2015 Gene Earl Coons passed in peace on June 3, 2015, at the age of 95 years old at his home with his daughter and son-in-law, Maggie and Don Rogers. Preceded in death by his wife, Marie Antoinette (Alexander) also known as Toni, and his daughter Marilyn, his parents Joseph and Zelma Coons, and his two brothers, Joy and Nile Coons. He was a loving and supportive father to his children, David of Los Angeles, California; Gregory of Tempe, Arizona; and Margaret (Rogers, living in Eden). His grandson, Jonathon Lewis resides in Surprise, Arizona with Brittany Rice and their 5 children, Wyatt, Declan, and Olivia Lewis; Abbie and Landon Rice. He is survived by many nieces, nephews and other family members and friends. Gene was born in 1919 on the farm his father started in Glenbar, Arizona. He was schooled locally, graduating from Gila Junior College of Graham County, and finished his education at the University of Arizona. He enlisted in the military, his career spanning World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Upon retirement, he returned to the Gila Valley and his family's farm. Farming was truly his life's ambition, but the discipline and patriotism he learned in his country's service never left him, he truly was one of the "greatest generation." The family wishes to thank his doctors and staff @ Mount Graham Regional Medical Center and The Haven of Safford for the outstanding care Gene was given during his final battle in life. Last respects with love and reverence will be at a graveside memorial on August 22 at 1000 a.m. at the Pima cemetery. He wished only to be burned like the flag, laid to rest simply and with little mention of his service to his country. So be it. Gene often said, "if I die tomorrow, I die a happy man. I have no regrets." His ashes will be driven from his farm in Glenbar, Arizona to the Pima Cemetery in his tractor, Big Red, by son, Greg. Hospice of the Valley Minister, Christiano Artigas, from the Phoenix area will perform the graveside service. His daughter's home in Eden will be open following the service. In lieu of flowers or donations, Gene and his family would hope that you will do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness in his name. Facts Born: August 8, 1919 Place of Birth: Glenbar, AZ Death: June 3, 2015 Place of Death: Pima, AZ Occupation: Farmer