The world has lost an amazing man. Richard William Coon, 84, passed away on January 21, 2026. He was born on December 3, 1941, in Queens, New York, to Richard and Catherine Coon, who preceded him in death.
Richard proudly served his country, enlisting in the military at the age of 23. With 20 years of dedicated service, he served in the United States Navy as part of a Marine Construction Battalion as a Seabee, as well as in the United States Coast Guard. A Vietnam War veteran, Richard was a survivor of the Tet Offensive in 1968, an experience that profoundly shaped his life and reflected his courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to service.
Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Constance Coon; his children, Katrina Orr, Tracy Valencia, Christine Marba, and Richard Coon; his cherished grandchildren, Dalia Valencia, Isabella Valencia, and Logan Orr; and his sister, Carolyn Payne.
He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose strength, loyalty, and quiet dedication will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Richard’s legacy of service, perseverance, and love for his family will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind, as well as through his final selfless gift of donating his body to science in the hope of helping others.
Post everlasting will be held at American Legion Post 26 in Mesa, AZ at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in Richard’s name. https://help.dav.org/page/53021/donate/
