On Sunday, May 7, 2017 Assistant Fire Chief Richard H. Coe Jr. was called to report to his final fire. The epitome of husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and gentleman, Rich now stands guardian of the gulch in a higher place.
Rich was born in Helena on April 10, 1940 to Edith Helena Coe (Anderson) and Richard Hoback Coe, one of Helena’s pioneer families. He and his brother Jack lived, played and grew up in the family home on 11th Avenue (affectionately known as the white elephant), with famous neighbors Gary Cooper on one side and Myrna Loy on the other. Summers and holidays were spent surrounded by Uncles and Aunts at the family homestead in Deadman Gulch. Rich attended Helena schools, Central School (Kindergarten – 8th grade), graduating from Helena High School in 1958. He attended Montana State University studying Industrial Arts.
While at Central School, Rich met Karen Cordrey who had recently moved from Missoula. True to form Rich could tell you the year, the month and the day they met. Rich knew he had met the love of his life. Rich and Karen formed a secret plan, unbeknown to some, to spend their lives together. Rich and Karen eloped in Coeur D’Alene, ID and have been together since the 8th grade and married for 58 years.
After attending MSU, Rich joined the US Army (396th Army Reserve Hospital in Helena). In 1964, Rich joined the Helena Fire Department. As a young firefighter, Rich also moonlighted as a switchman for the Burlington Northern Railroad. Rich remained with the fire department for 26 years and retired as the Assistant Fire Chief in 1990. In retirement Rich was called to help out, driving a bus for East Helena School District. Never one to give up on “Helping” Rich continued to drive for 16 years, the true definition of a public servant. Rich loved and was loved by the little people on his bus, often being heard quoting Porky Pig “Th Th Th That’s all folks” or “Ok folks, Next Stop Cucamonga.” This turned out to be his favorite job!
In his final Fire station, Rich will be reunited with his father Richard Hoback Sr., his mother Edith Helena, Uncle Andy, “UNK” and Aunt “Toady.”
He is survived by his wife Karen, two children Lisa C. Merdoc, son Kent R. Coe (Lisa) and extended son, Curt Spurzem (Patty). Grandchildren: Alex (Coe) Seth Long, Andrew Merdoc, Zachary Coe, Lily Merdoc, and Brother Jack (Pat) and their children Shannon, Kathy and Rich.
Dad, was simply the “Greatest” friend to all he touched. Never asking of anyone but always being there for everyone. He is often remembered for his love of Trains, 40 years of fun at Holland Lake (Captain of the tubing boat), documenting all of life’s events in either picture or video, his license plate collection, and uncanny photographic memory for numbers and dates. Above all, Rich will be remembered for his incredible love of his grandchildren.
If you have a memory you would like to share at the celebration, please email to asw@mt.net Subject line: Memories of Rich.
A service celebrating Rich’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 11th at Jorgenson’s Restaurant, 1720 11th Avenue. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Rich’s name are suggested to the Algeria Shriners Transportation Fund, 15th North Jackson Street, PO Box 1179, Helena, MT 59604.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Thursday May 11, 2017
Jorgenson's Restaurant
1720 11th Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Thursday May 11, 2017
Jorgenson's Restaurant
1720 11th Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Kassidi DeMars says
I have very fond memories of Rich while growing up. Alex (his granddaughter) and I met in 6th grade and it was astonishing that we hadn’t met prior to then. Our grandparents were all friends and my own parents ran around with Lisa (Rich and Karen’s daughter) all through their adolescence. Rich always had a demeanor about him that was so pleasant and he always presented himself with such happiness and a love for life. I remember going to Holland Lake once during a very cold and rainy June and a rope swinging had gone awry and I ended up falling into the lake. Sure enough, Rich came to my rescue instantaneously and I was soon warm and dry next to the fire. I also distinctly remember having a sleepover at Rich and Karen’s one evening and woke up the next morning to Rich cleaning my car windows. “I was cleaning my windows and noticed yours were a little dirty as well,” he said as I was walking down the drive. It’s not a significant memory, but it is one of my favorites of him because it completely encapsulates the person that Rich was and how sincere and genuine of a person he was. I am so glad that I was able to know such a wonderful person and cannot express my gratitude and respect for such a great man. Rest in peace, Rich, and know that you will be greatly missed!
-Kassidi DeMars
Moriah says
I didn’t know Rich but my kids rode his bus and absolutely adored him. We are so sorry for your loss and will be keeping you in our thoughts. He will be missed!
Terry Harris says
Karen, Jack and family Rich was a true gentleman and will be missed by all. I will be out of town and will not be able to make the service but I will say a prayer for him and you.
Darlene Miller Scott says
Karen and Family, So sad to hear that Rich had passed. May your wonderful memories of such a kind, gentle, husband and father help to get you thru this most difficult time. May you find comfort in knowing that he is resting peacefully in the arms of our Lord.
Sharon Redpath says
Karen & family,
Rich was one of a kind, humorous, sweet, kind, happy, precious & a forever friend. I loved that guy like a brother. He teased me endlessly, throughout our lives, always with affection. He named me squaw in high school because I dated a guy named Redpath, after high school my name became Zelda, go figure. He was always there for anyone in need, never asking anything in return. Everything was done with a smile. I have many happy years to remember with Rich and Karen, we grew up together and grew old together. I will never forget you Rich, you took such good care of my very precious friend, Karen & your precious children. You worked hard all your life, now it is time for you to rest. We will all watch over your family and love them , as you would.
Karen and family, may you get through this trying time with the help and love from your many friends & family. God bless you all, you are such wonderful people. I love you all!
Guerin Family says
Rich was such a kind man and so caring to my sons who rode his bus for the past 9 years. My kids felt safe and always cared for. On the sporadic days that he wasn’t there to greet them in the morning they would be disappointed, but so excited to see him the following day. Our family truly appreciated “Mr. Rich” and the love that he gave to our sons. I really enjoyed my chats with this very special gentleman. He is missed very much! Thanks for always keeping our sons safe from harm, Mr. Rich!
Larry Ross says
Karen and family,
I am sorry for your loss. I met Rich through the HFD, he was the Assistant Fire Chief when I was hired. I loved his contagious big laugh. My sons were just little boys when I worked with Rich. I remember to this day when Rich called me into his office and gave me a toy for my sons. He was a kind and generous man. Oh yeah, his memory for dates, numbers, figures, even which license plate belonged to which fireman was astounding. He made good memories for me and will be missed.
Chris Merdoc says
I loved Rich dearly, he rose two wonderful children, and was grateful to be welcomed to his family as I married his daughter, Lisa. He was a pround grandfather and great mentor to his grandchildren, Andrew and Lily and Alec and Zach. He will be sorely missed my many.
God Bless you Rich, enjoy eternity with the ones you lossed previously. We will see you soon. Much love, Chris Merdoc
Eric Kerchner says
To many great words come to mind of how AWESOME Rich was as a man, father, husband, and most of all GRANDFATHER. As the owner of Independence Automotive, my wife Mary and I loved the many cordial random visits that Rich would pay us almost weekly. You always knew when Rich arrived to visit, he would enter the business with his opening phrase, “IS THIS RIP OFF MOTORS, I NEED MY JELOPY FIXED”. Oh how my wife and I will miss those visits and Rich’s great sense of family and friends.
RICH, YOU WILL BE FOREVER MISSED AND MAY YOU STAND TALL AT THE TOP OF THE GULCH GUARDIAN TOWER.
Eric Kerchner & Family
Tiffany Snook & Family says
Six years ago we met Rich. He was my son’s bus driver from Kindergarten until recently. He was just the sweetest man. One day my son got on the bus. A few minutes later I see the bus come down my road. In runs my son. “I forgot my backpack.” he says. I said “Rich turned around so you could get your backpack?” He replied “Yep.” like it was a normal thing for a bus driver to do. I had to explain that Rich was different he was a very kind person and that he was lucky to have such a great person as a bus driver. No other bus driver would have cared. Every time my son took treats to school he would have one for Rich. He once told me I had great kids. I knew that my kids were in safe hands when Rich was driving them. This has been super hard on my son as he loved and misses Rich so much. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Rich will be missed dearly.
Chris Merdoc says
Ps I meant Alex, sorry Alex lol. And a favorite Rich quip is “Buy you books and buy you books”. What a great wonderful laugh. Again he will be missed dearly
John Gray says
I only met Rich and his wife Karen twice in my life , but it was enough to know that he was an extremely friendly and kind man . I hope he has found peace now and I know he will be sorely missed by everyone whose life he has touched. God bless him .
Steve Larson says
Karen and family,
I was deeply saddened when I heard of Rich’s passing. Rich was someone who always had a smile and a thoughtful word whether it had to do with you or your family or something about the fire department. I will miss him and his booming laugh. My sincere condolences to the entire Coe family. Rich will be missed.
Russell Raschkow says
Lisa, Kent, and Karen,
I am surprised, and very saddened to learn that Rich has “caught a train”. He was a true gentle man, and a mighty tolerant man, at that. I always enjoyed my many visits to the Coes home, hangin’ out with Karen after bringing Lisa home late from the movie, and an evenings antics. A wild hare in a GTO showing up to wisk his daughter away for fun and games, never seemed to cause Rich (or Karen) any concern. It wasn’t that way with ALL the folks I would meet… Rich always seemed so calm, cool, collected. Was it the fire fighter in him? Or the fact he raised a smart, attentive young lady that knew when to bail when the goin’ got weird? He exhibited great trust in that daughter of his, if not a little trust in the hare. For that, and family Coes friendship, support of the arts, I am forever thankful.
Of course, I always over enjoyed the vacations to Holland Lake, generally raising hell, and happy to be in the company of the smart, cool, and collected.
A couple years ago I found myself back in the ‘hood. Rich was watching a Griz’ game, and offered the beer and a chair. It was a good visit, but I think the Griz lost. I was looking forward to another visit, to discuss a few vintage Lionel train sets I wanted to share with him. Am sure he could have enlightened me. Snooze, ya lose…
Karen and Lisa, countless are the smiles when I recollect earlier times hangin’ with the Coes. Generous, tolerant folks, all of ’em! God bless Richard Coe, and his wonderful family!
Love yas,
Russ
Londa Routzahn Burns says
Karen and family,. I am sorry for your loss. I remember Rich being a quite kind person. I am out of town so I won’t be able to be at the memorial. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Londa
Karyn Olsen says
What a wonderful man. So fortunate to have known Rich as the driver of Bus 3 for East Helena Schools. He was the guy who would take the time to go back for lost backpack or a child that missed the bus. We will truly miss his kind and calm presence. So many little ones are missing you now Rich, as am I at Radley Elementary.
J.R. Feucht says
Karen and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Rich was A-chief when I went to work for Helena Fire. I hadn’t’ been on very long when I decided to buy a used truck. I was at the credit union borrowing money and they wanted to know my salary–and I had no idea! I called the station and Rich answered. Rich, a guy with such a prodigious mind for numbers, simply could not believe it!! Needless to say I heard about it many times after that but never in a mean-spirited way, Rich was way too nice a guy to be mean. He will indeed be missed. May you find some semblence of peace.
J.R.Feucht
Patty Foley Balhiser says
Karen, I am so saddened to read of Rich’s passing. You and he were such good neighbors. I will always remember his smiling face. I am not able to attend his service, but know that I am there in spirit. Please take care of yourself. Patty
Bob Knudson says
Karen, Liza and Kent
I’m so sorry to here about Rich’s passing, he was a wonderful person. I know how much his family, friends, co-workers and everyone meant to him.
I had the privilege of working with him for many years at the fire department, that too was worth every day because of Rich. My prayers are with his entire family. Until we meet again on a grander stage SEE YOU LATER CHIEF
Bill and Tuffy Haselhorst says
Dear Karen,
Bill and I were so shocked and saddened to hear of Rich’s passing. I have such wonderful high school memories of you and Rich – lots of fun times! Bill remembers the good times in Bozeman. Working at the gas station, having a few beers, sharing a love of fast cars and the summer they worked in West Yellowstone. Our thoughts and prayers are with and your family.
Drew Anderson says
Safe journeys, Cuz, and don’t forget to take that left turn in Albequerque!
Jim & Pixie Richeson says
Karen and family: So sorry to hear of Rich’s passing.He was a brother firefighter and a solid all around guy with a great sense of humor. He keft an impact on a lot of lives.Jim & Pixie
Radley Staff says
The staff at Radley Elementary would like to express our deepest condolences to Rich’s family and friends. He was such a wonderful man who shared his smile, jokes, and laughter on the bus with the kids of East Helena for many years. He will be missed deeply by all of our students and staff here at Radley. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Lori Carruthers says
Rich was one of the most nicest, neatest gentleman I have ever met. I never saw him in a bad mood and seemed to love life to the fullest. Wish there were more like him but I am sure there’s not too many like him. Karen and family I am deeply sorry for your loss. It was almost unbelievable how intense he loved his grandchildren. We shall all miss him. Lori
Betty Anderson says
We were so sorry to learn of Rich’s death. We do want to extend our thoughts and prayers to you, Karen and your family. It was always great to see you at each of our High School Class reunions and hopefully we will be able to see you again in Helena. We wish you the best as you move forward without Rick to be a part of it! Our blessings to you all.
Betty and Jim Anderson
Jack Schilla says
Karen, Sorry to learn of Rich;s departure. I will always fondly recall how Rich tried to protect me that New Years Eve at your home long ago. Rich was a very special man and my condolences go out to you. God be with you Karen and give you His strength to endure. Blessings from Valier, Montana. Very Sincerely Yours Always Karen, Jack Schilla.
Terry W Bass says
Great person. Dedicated to family and many others. Rest In Peace.
allen stenhjem0 says
Great. Friend ,neighbor , classmate ,all the above rip Richard God bless,,,,,,,
Pat Johnston Ross says
Karen and family, So sorry to hear of Rich’s passing. I know how difficult these next days will be. You are in my prayers.
Kaden Johnson says
I rode Rich’s bus all the time. When I was at Eastgate and Radley all the kids would want to sit in the back with the middle schoolers. But I would always sit in front with him. I thought of him as family and his wife worked at Ash Grove and my dad worked there. He would call me Johnson-Johnson and we would always have fun on the bus-rides. Just recently, I took my dog to school and Rich let me take him on the bus. I will miss Rich very much.
JoAnn Daly says
My family and I have had many great times with Karen and Rich. Rich will be missed by many many friends . God bless you Karen and family.