James "Jim" Coenen

James “Jim” Richard Coenen, 83, of Wrightstown, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday morning, November 28. He was born on December 19, 1938, to Richard and Eleanor (Simon) Coenen-Demerath. He married the love of his life on February 14, 1962. Jim proudly served in the Navy from 1957 to 1959, and worked at Thilmany Pulp and Paper for over 40 years. He coached boys Babe Ruth and Legion baseball for 19 years, while Marlene was by his side keeping the books. Mr. “Green Thumb” was an avid gardener; growing bountiful vegetables, beautiful flowers and keeping his grass in pristine condition. Jim loved fishing both in the boat and on the ice, as well as watching the Brewers, Badgers and Packers. If you needed a hand, he was there ready and willing to assist. Jim had a keen talent in woodworking, refurbishing and making creations for their home, his family members, St. Clare’s Parish, and other charities. Jim, along with Marlene, would always support Toys for Tots and Coats for Kids, and for years they took their carload of donations to drop off sites. They also enjoyed going to auctions, collecting antiques and Packer memorabilia. Let's not forget that Jim loved to talk with others, and many times his wife would wonder if he was ever coming back from his walks or Dicks Family Foods.

Most important was his family - his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were his world. He led by example, taught them many things, and took pride in providing for them all. He was committed to attending his children and grandchildren’s activities throughout his lifetime. Toward the later part of his journey, he would continually thank his family for their love and care, showing endless gratitude for enabling his wish of staying in his home. He was truly loved by his wife, children and siblings. A special thanks to his wife, Marlene, and Chris and Don Pogrant, for staying with him in his home for the last 9 months. Jim was and will always be remembered as a kind, giving and amazing husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and community member.

Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marlene. Together they raised four children: Terry (Chris) Coenen, Christine (Don) Pogrant, Julie (Jim) Meulemans, Karen Coenen (Sarah Keller). Five grandchildren: Lea (Eric) Lackey, Zachary (Kelsey) Coenen, Paige (Jake) Herbst, Ashely Coenen, Matthew (Breanna) Meulemans. Five great grandchildren: Jamie and Kennedy Herbst, Nola Coenen, Aiden Lackey, Owen Meulemans. He is also survived by his siblings: Judy Ehlert, Ted (Gail) Coenen, Mark (Lynette) Coenen, and sister-in-law Ruth Theunis.

He is preceded in death by his mother Eleanor Coenen-Demerath, father Richard Coenen, mother-in-law Christina Theunis-VanZeeland, father-in-law Edward Theunis, brother-in-law Bill Ehlert, brother-in-law William Theunis, niece Betsy Martin-Theunis, step-father-in-law Bernie Van Zeeland, step-father George Demerath.

Family and friends may visit on Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 9:00 am until 11:45 am at St. Clare Catholic Church- St. Paul Site, 437 Main Street, Wrightstown, WI. Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 pm noon, with Rev. Bob Kabat and Rev. Brian Wideman concelebrating.

In lieu of flowers, Jim would like a donation to Toys for Tots.