John J. Coughlin

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Nora Coughlin and his brother-in-law, Allan A. Mueller. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Merle Ann Coughlin and his sister Mary M. (Michael) Pinney as well as his brother-in-law Dan W. (Roseanne) Mueller, his nieces and nephews: Dan (Gina) Mueller, Sean (Jennifer) Pinney, Lara Fowler (Kelly Brisson), Paul (Susan) Mueller, and Colin (Lindsey) Pinney, and his great-nieces and nephews: Patrick, Kevin, Madeleine and Brenna Pinney, Shannon (John) Weiner, Molly (Nick) Wagner, two great-grand nieces and one great-grand nephew.

John graduated from McBride High School (1962) and Saint Louis University (1966) with a BA, majoring in classic English literature. He pursued advanced studies at University of London and Exeter College at Oxford, focusing on the writings of Charles Dickens. He had diverse careers and many personal interests including the mastery of several freehand ancient calligraphy fonts, researching Saint Louis history, and engaging with the natural beauty and challenge of trout fishing on numerous beautiful streams in the USA. In retirement, he enjoyed volunteering for the Saint Louis County Park Rangers' Learn to Camp and Fish Programs, the Friends of the Shrine of Saint Joseph, and other organizations.

John has donated his body to Saint Louis University School of Medicine. A Memorial Service is scheduled for Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Shrine of Saint Joseph, 1220 North 11th Street, Saint Louis MO 63106. visitation at 10 and Mass at 11.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Friends of the Shrine of Saint Joseph to help preserve and maintain this beautiful historic structure.

Please leave a fond memory of John for his family to cherish at the

"Add a Memory" link below.