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It is with deep sadness that the family of Frederick J. Coson Sr. announces his passing on April 17, 2018. Surrounded by the love of his family, he was called home to Heaven. Fred was born in Tacoma, WA on May 22, 1944, the second child of George E. Coson Sr. and Joan Coson. He attended Catholic grade schools, Marymount Military Academy, and Marquette High School (1962). Fred went on to Washington State University and was a member of the ATO Fraternity. He graduated in 1966, while in the Officer ROTC program, and joined the Army where he was promoted to the rank of Captain. In 1970, Fred was transferred to the Yakima Firing Center and was the OIC of Officer Services. While in the Army, he met and married his loving wife of 48 years, JoAnn. They finished his tour of duty and moved to Richland, WA, where their daughter Stephanie was born. Upon returning to Yakima, their son Frederick Jr. was born. Fred and JoAnn worked together in construction sales and property development on both sides of Washington State, but those who knew him best know that the only profession that mattered to him was that of “Dad.”

Fred lived by the motto, “Life should be enjoyed and when you look back, the time and love you shared with family matters most!” He was generous, kind hearted and quick witted. His cleverness was unmatched, in fun and in mischief! He lived for his family and his children often referred to him as “The World’s Greatest Dad,” a title he loved and earned. He was more than a father—a mentor, a protector, our biggest fan, and our very best friend. Whether it was a shared meal out, silly games, debating current events, or a late night cribbage match, he always put fun and family first! Besides being a constant source of laughter, Fred is remembered by so many for the love and care he has given to his wife, JoAnn, after her debilitating stroke years ago.  

To know Fred was to love him; he treated everyone like a friend. He never felt sorry for himself through his extended illness and maintained his humor and charm through it all!  Fred not only came to walk with the Lord during his life, but brought his whole family along with him! Through his unwavering example of love, he taught his family about the unconditional love that Christ extends to us all! His legacy of love will live on through his family for generations to come. Thank you to the doctors and nurses…there are too many to name individually, but you know who you are!  A very heartfelt thank you to Sister Fe Sumalde, who ministered to our family in our greatest need. You were our angel and will remain in our hearts forever!

Fred is survived by his wife JoAnn, daughter Stephanie Coson (Matt Swetnam), son Fred Coson Jr., brother George Coson III (Linda Lea), sister Sandra Tilton (Mike Little), nephew George Coson IV, niece Angela (Brian) Dreher and great-nephews Asher and Jaxon, uncle Joseph T. Mijich (Martha Swanson), and his “cousins” Larry and Barbara Orme. A celebration of his life will be held on his birthday, May 22, 2018, at 3pm at the Yakima Hilton Garden Inn. Please visit  www.forevermissed.com/fred-j-coson/ to leave a fond memory of Fred.

Fred, you left us too soon! We are heartbroken, but you fought a difficult fight.  You ran your own race, finished in victory, and did it your way! Thanks for the fun, the laughter, the friendship, and most of all the love.♥

If you were lucky enough to know Fred Coson, you were simply lucky enough!




This memorial website was created in memory of our beloved father, brother, uncle, Fred Coson Sr, 73, born on May 22, 1944 and passed away on April 17, 2018. We will remember him forever.  We encourage you to click on the "Stories" tab above and leave a fond memory or funny story of the time you shared with Fred.