Obituary of Ralph E. Coates

Ralph E. Coates, 75, of Mehoopany, passed away Thursday, February 8^th, at Geisinger CMC in Scranton.  Born February 8, 1943, he was the son of the late Frank D. and Dorothy Wynings Coates.

Ralph was a 1960 graduate of Tunkhannock High School and received an Associate’s degree from Lackawanna Jr. College in 1962. He served as a Sergeant in the USAF after having served in Vietnam.  He retired from P&G after working for 30 years. 

Ralph was known, well liked, and very active in his community as a member of the Mehoopany United Methodist Church and VFW as well as many other organizations over the years.  He traveled extensively with his wife in the past, greatly enjoyed hunting with his son, and was proud of his children’s accomplishments.  He was thrilled to see the Eagles finally achieve the super bowl. 

During Ralph’s time in the service he was proud to have received the USAF Commendation Ribbon, USAF Outstanding Unit Award, USAF Good Conduct Medal, Nation Defense Service Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, USAF Longevity Service Ribbon, USAF Small Arms Expert Ribbon, Gallantry Cross W/Palm Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, American Defense Service Commemorative Ribbon, Cold War Commemorative Ribbon, Overseas Service Commemorative Ribbon, and the Honorable Service Commemorative Ribbon.

Ralph was preceded in death by a brother Hiram R. Coates.

He is survived by his wife Patti Wysocki Coates and son Frank Robert Coates, USN, and daughter Heather A. Sorrentino of New York, NY.

Funeral services will be held at a later date.