It is with great sadness that the family of Charles Coenen (Charlie) announce his passing on Friday, October 15, 2021 at the age of 79.
Charlie was born in Appleton, WI and moved to New London shortly after marrying the love of his life, Barbara Jean in 1966. After his diagnosis with Alzheimer’s and dementia, he and Barb moved to Plymouth, MN to be closer to their children. Charlie joined the Army in 1962 and spent two years in Okinawa as Chaplin’s assistant. After the army, he worked most of his life in construction, building houses from pouring concrete to shingling roofs. He loved the outdoors, spending time with nature taking walks in the woods or going fishing in his boat. He enjoyed tapping maple trees in the spring to make maple syrup. His favorite time of the year was deer hunting in November. He wouldn’t miss it, although often he would miss the deer and come home empty handed, but it didn’t matter as he was with friends in the woods.
Charlie will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Barb of 54 years; children, Kathleen (Rick) Wanke, Carrie (Ryan) Elsner, and Kevin (Angie Hauge) Coenen; grandchildren, Jacob and Andrew Coenen, Makayla, Matthew and Sophia Wanke and numerous other family members and friends. Charlie was predeceased by his parents, Clarence and Vivian Coenen and brother, Jerry Coenen and sister, Mary Miles.
Arrangements for his funeral are at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic church on Saturday, October 23rd at 155 County Road 24, Wayzata MN 55391. Visitation at 10:00 a.m. with Mass starting at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, join us for a celebration luncheon at Kevin and Angie’s home at 7401 Amberwood Lane, Savage MN 55378. A Celebration will be held at a later date in New London, WI. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Charlie’s name.