Coe was a wonderful brother-in-law. He enriched the lives of everyone who knew him. It was such a pleasure to be with him and Donna at the huge Williams weddings and family holiday reunions. He was a great constant; whether on the beach in California, or in Mom’s Ft Collins kitchen, he’d always be there with his ageless wife, Donna, and in his “uniform”, of course: a flannel shirt tucked into jeans, sleeves never rolled up, and with a big belt buckle and hiking boots. Although, my wife claims that Coe actually did roll up his sleeves once on the beach, showing about 2 inches of his wrists -- nearly naked for Coe. No one else claims to have seen this. He always had an active role in the kitchen, helping, if not overseeing the cooking for as many as 50 of us. But he mostly enjoyed looking out over the huge island counter and telling stories or joking with everyone, and especially the kids. He was a man's man, honest and clear. He’d grin as Donna would gently admonish him, “Coe”, for being too course in his language, as we’d all be laughing at his gross stories. And he was smart; usually winning the games, and always ready to comment on nearly any subject with good insight… and always at least a touch of humor. He will be greatly missed.

Posted by Tom Williams on September 17, 2017

Those beautiful twinkling eyes...... Donna and family: I am so sorry for your loss and for all of us fortunate enough to have known Coe. Coe was a very special person. Kind, good-humored, hard-working, and ever the gentleman. I was in school at U of M with Coe and my initial meeting of him, at a campfire kegger during the Fall Smoker, is a story I still tell. He was a fierce friend who got me through computer programming (I never got it, he did), nursed me through a cold once (I think whiskey was involved), and shared life and experiences. I have so many lovely memories of a good and gentle man….and so many remembrances that make me smile. I regret that our paths didn't cross often after we left Missoula, but when they did, it was always a joyful experience.. There's very special star out there that's brightly twinkling. With warmest thoughts, Ellen Michaels Goheen

Posted by Ellen Michaels Goheen on September 16, 2017

Donna, Lynne told us of Coe's passing. Although I did'nt know him, I can tell from her reaction, that he was a wonderful person, larger than life & someone who will be forever missed at your Williams gathering. Cherish those memories & may they bring you & your family comfort. Hugs from Lori & Mark Davidson Family

Posted by Lori Davidson on September 16, 2017

Donna-you and Coe were wonderful to have around. Everybody body was happy to see you both. We have nothing but good memories of Coe. We all lost somebody really real.

Posted by Nob Schoenfelder on September 15, 2017

I am sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts ands prayers go out to you.

Posted by Kay Larus on September 15, 2017

I first met Coe in 1981 when I started working for the GFP. ie. game,fish,parks. I therefor knew him for over 30 years before I retired. He was one very likable fellow. Gregarious, warm, and just plain very pleasant to be around. I do believe the world lost a very kind and human individual. My condolences to his wife and family. Both Coe and his farther Willy were dear to me. Ted

Posted by Ted Benzon on September 15, 2017

Ann, your friends are thinking of you at the MPCA. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Posted by Mick Smith on September 15, 2017

To Gary Coe and anyone else curious about Coe's name. Coe was named for Coe College. Our great grandfather was one of the founders of this college.

Posted by Polly Foss on September 15, 2017

First I want to say that I am sorry for your loss, it sounds like Coe was a great guy. I am curious where his first name came from as though he had Coe family ancestors and may be a relative of mine. Thanks Gary Coe

Posted by Gary Coe on September 15, 2017

Very sorry to read about Coe's passing. I worked with Coe at State Forestry, from the time he went to work there in Rapid City -- a whole lot of years ago. So many happy & fun memories of Coe (back in his younger & single years) and all the fires that he went out on & fought. He was always one of the more popular guys working for State Forestry. I worked for State Forestry for 11-1/2 years and went on to work for BLM in Billings, MT for 15 more years and never forgot those wonderful & fun years working for SD Forestry and those neat guys. Donna, I never got to meet you, and am so sorry for your loss.

Posted by Marilyn (Weaver) Gruenig on September 15, 2017

Donna and Family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Coe was a great guy and will surely be missed. When I was a struggling college student working for the State of SD, Coe saw me eating some chips one day and asked if that was all I was going to eat. I told him yes, I couldn't afford anything else. He promptly reached into his pocket and handed me some money and told me to go buy some "food". I didn't want to take the money at first, but he was very determined and I eventually gave in. I remember him telling me that he too was once a college student and he knew the struggles. Even though I promptly paid him back on pay day, which was less than a week away, I have been forever grateful for the kindness he showed me that day. In fact, I was able to pay it forward by doing the same thing for a struggling college student. I won't ever forget that. I won't forget the kindness that he showed me that day. Godspeed Coe! Rest in Piece friend.

Posted by Angie Hinker on September 14, 2017

Donna and Family, this message comes with sincere sympathy for your loss. I worked with Coe over many years with our careers paralleling in SD and WY. He will be missed, but always remembered.

Posted by Dan Perko on September 14, 2017