Pearl E. Coffey

RACINE - Pearl E. (nee: Nieme) Coffey, age 92, passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2008. Pearl was born in Arnheim, Michigan, September 18, 1915, daughter of the late John and Hilma (nee: Erickson) Nieme. On October 5, 1940, she was united in marriage to Gerald F. Coffey who preceded her in death, September 5, 1994. Pearl was employed by Western Publishing for many years, retiring in 1977. She was a member of St. Rita Catholic Church. Pearl enjoyed creating rag rugs, jigsaw puzzles, playing bridge, gardening and baking. She was proud of her Finnish heritage and was fondly known for her upper Michigan pasties. Above all, Pearl was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who will be dearly missed. Survivors include her children, Gary (Mary) Coffey of Racine, Barbara (David) Tillert of Elgin, Ill.; her grandchildren, Michelle Bradley (fiancé, John Fugate), Jerry Tillert (fiancée, Sandy Erdmann), Erik (Beckie) Habetler, Christine (John) Anderson, Teresa Tillert; her great-grandchildren, James Bradley, Ethan Habetler, Abby Habetler, Jordyn Anderson; longtime friend, George Mertens; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Margaret Maki, Millie Coffey, Jeanette Leaman, Lawrence Coffey; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. Pearl was the last surviving sibling of 13 brothers and sisters. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Rita Catholic Church, 4339 Douglas Avenue, Saturday, July 5, 2008, 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Joseph G. Stobba O.S.A. officiating. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Garden Mausoleum, Highway 32. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the church on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass. Memorials to St. Rita Catholic Church have been suggested. MARESH-MEREDITH AND ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME 803 Main Street 262-634-7888