Jim was born on October 20, 1947 in Toledo, Ohio to his parents Eva Mae and Robert Coen. He was raised in Maumee, Ohio where he attended elementary school through high school. He graduated from Maumee High School in 1965 and attended Hanover College in Indiana. He earned his degrees in Theology and English.
Jim then attended Princeton Seminary and earned a Masters of Divinity Degree in 1972. During his time at Princeton, he assisted at two different churches. During his last year in seminary, he researched the Swiss psychologist and psychiatrist, Carl Jung which greatly impacted Jim’s preaching, teaching and counseling.
After graduation, Jim served as an assistant Minister at the Presbyterian Church in New Providence, NJ. He typically worked with the Senior High Youth Group and developed the Youth Club Program. The program was very successful and brought in Youth’s from other churches.
In 1975, Jim served as Pastor at the Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church in Oak Ridge, NJ. He served for 37 years before retiring in 2012. He loved preaching, teaching and sharing the love of Jesus Christ with him parishioners and others. Jim challenged all to discover the meanings of the scriptures through his skillful questioning along with his thoughtful information that he provided in his teaching.
Jim enjoyed studying various subjects such as Science, History, historical biographies and poetry. He wrote many poems, some of which he used in his Sermons, newsletters and teaching. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Jim had a profound love for the Lord and he will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife Susan of 47 years, his two sons Timothy and Brian, Sister Jane Grinnoneau, nephews Jeff and Greg Lake and four great nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Sparta Ecumenical Food Pantry 32 Main St., Sparta, NJ 07871.
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