Edna M. Coats (nee Carlson), age 90, of West Bend, passed away on Tuesday, July 5, 2011 at the Kettle Moraine Gardens in Kewaskum.
She was born on July 26, 1920 in Minneapolis, MN to the late Albin and Augusta (nee Peterson) Carlson. Edna attended college in her home town of Minneapolis where she earned a degree in business. Following her graduation from college, Edna began working for her father as a book keeper for his Waupaca resort and his dime stores in Madison. While working for her father she met the love of her life Willard H. Coats who was also employed by her father. Willard and Edna were united in marriage on July 6, 1944 in Madison. Together they moved to Lake Mills and began the Coats Dime Store.
Edna was a self sacrificing, hard working woman with a good business mind. She was a very loving mother and devoted grandmother. When her children were young she was very active in their girl scout troops. She was always able to find the good in things and always had a kind word to share with others. She was a past Worthy Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star as well as a member of the Red Hat Society. Edna was very involved with the YMCA and was part of their Half Century Club. She enjoyed tap dancing, sewing, and being around animals, especially dogs. Faith was a big part of Edna's life. She enjoyed participating in her church's women's circle and used her book keeping experience to serve her church on their consistory board.
Edna is survived by her three daughters, Jacqueline Coats of Seattle, WA, Cynthia Dallman of West Bend, and Christine (Patrick) Hunter of DeWitt, IA. She is further survived by two grandchildren, Kyle Dallman and Abigail Hunter; and many other dear relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her Husband Willard, her parents, two sisters, and three brothers.
A funeral service in honor of Edna will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 12.00 pm at Peace United Church of Christ (343 First St. Kewaskum, WI 53040). Rev. Eric Kirkegaard will officiate and burial will follow the service in Rock Lake Cemetery in Lake Mills. Visitation will be at the church on Saturday from 11:00 am until the time of service at noon.