Owen Coats

Owen Philip Coats, age 84, formerly of Saranac Lake and currently of Rochester, died Sunday, April 22, 2018 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester after a long battle with emphysema.

Born in New Kensington, Pennsylvania on April 14, 1934, he was the son of Herbert and Margaret (Mitchell) Coats. Owen married Betty Douglas on September 21, 1954 in St. Bernard's Church. Betty predeceased him on February 21, 2007.

Phil served in the United States Army from 1954 until his retirement in 1975. During his distinguished military career he served in France Germany, Alaska, many other posts throughout the US, and also included two tours in Viet Nam. He retired as a Command Sergeant Major and earned many awards including two Bronze Stars. Following retirement he moved to Saranac Lake, where he was the manager for Aubuchon Hardware store for many years fostering many friendships and community relations.

He is survived by two sons Roland Coats of Henderson, NC, and Daniel A. (Delayne) Coats and of Rochester, seven grandchildren Melanie Garza of Lockhart, TX, Tiffany Coats and Benjamin Coats of Albion, NY, Molly Dyson of London, England, Phoebe, Julia & Isabelle Coats of Fairport, NY, two great grandsons Andre and Alex Coats of Lockhart, TX and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sisters Dorothy Sumereau of Gaylord, MI and Sue Toler of Ellettsville, IN. He was preceded in death by one son, Robert.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. A funeral service and burial will take place at North Elba Cemetery in Lake Placid at the convenience of the family.

Friends wishing to remember Owen Philip Coats may make memorial contributions to the American Heart Association in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their memories and sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.