He was born in Springfield, July 14, 1947 the son of Richard L. and Marilyn (Lakin) Coe. He married Mary Collebrusco in 1993 in Las Vegas, and they divorced in 2009, however remained close friends.
Rich attended Stuart Grade School, Franklin Jr. High School and Springfield High School graduating in 1965. He attend Springfield Junior College, Winston Churchill College and Sangamon State University.
He played basketball for Springfield High School and was a special and honorable All State Selection. He was a first team All Big Twelve Conference player and All City Selection.
He continued his basketball career with Springfield Junior College and AAU Basketball for Lincoln Cab Co. He also played slow pitch softball for Lincoln Cab and Van Pickrell and Sons.
Rich was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969 and completed a tour in Vietnam in 1970 before being honorably discharged in 1971. After his military service, Rich returned to Springfield and worked for Amco Fence Co. He later became a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service for 34 years. He served as a co-cordinator for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
He enjoyed watching his kids play sports at school. He also enjoyed gardening, stamp collecting and playing Scrabble. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal baseball fan and University of Illinois sports fan. He was a member of First United Methodist Church. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 32, VFW Post 755, and DAV Prairie State#14.
Surviving are his children; Carly (Kemper) Younkin, Erik Coe, both of Springfield, and Carolyn (D.J.) Atwood of San Antonio, TX, a grandson, Jeremy Sheppleman of Phoenix, AZ, his brother, David Coe of Phoenix, AZ and his dear friend, Mary Coe. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Curtis Coe.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen St. Springfield where the family will greet family and friends on Friday, July 18, 2025 from 11:00 am until the time of a funeral service there at 12:30 pm. Pastor Nick Jordan will officiate. Burial will follow in Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the Muscular Dystrophy Association 1016 W. Jackson #1073 Chicago, IL 62607 or the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight 1523 S. Willemore Springfield, IL 62704
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com
