Joseph Leo Coburn Jr.

The passing of Joe Coburn is a loss to so many who were in contact with him in Roxana, Univ of IL, USCGA and/or worked with him in his many positions during and after USCG.

I was fortunate to be his roommate several times at CGA and his workmate (especially in the galley) while sailing the Atlantic on the EAGLE. His practical and intellectually based advice to me 2 years his junior influenced me permanently (for the better!). Our friendship was reinvigorated in1980, 27 years after our separation, and grew very close. This resulted in many occasions of getting together and enjoying and counseling each other during the good and the bad times characteristic of modern life.

His initiatives were bold and well thought out and the Honors program at CGA was substantially improved and endorsed by senior leaders of USCG thanks to Joe. His efforts to build that program were assisted by his promotion of Class of 55 support (which became a major focus for the class).

Many of us have lost a lot with Joe's passing and I am now missing a wonderful, productive, generous friend. Indeed, the world is a better place thanks to Joe. May he go on to other beneficial endeavors in a kinder place!

Jean Marie joins me in condolences for Alice and the entire family.

Pat Gratton

Alice and family, My sincere condolences to you on the passing of Joe. I enjoyed working for him for almost ten years at WHOI.

To the family of Joseph, My deepest sympathy for the loss of your loved one. May God comfort you during this difficult time. 2Corr 1:3,4

BC~

Alice and family,
I knew Joe at CGA where I was a member of both '54 and '56. I was always impressed with his demeanor and the way he conducted himself. Our careers took us different directions, both during our CG years, and afterwards. I am now in Poquoson. Bev Krams had told me Joe was in Woodhaven, but I was preparing for surgery myself, and did not contact you. I hurt when my friends hurt, and a fine officer like Joe will always be my friend. God be with all of you, now and always! Jim Granger, '56

Please accept my sincere sympathies. May God's holy spirit or active force, equip you with the " power beyond what is normal " to go from one day to the next. ( 2 Corinthians 4 : 7 ) Remember : God can help his faithful servants to endure any and every problem they may face.

Sincere condolences from the Mohin family to the Coburn family. Our families are linked through multiple generations. Bill and Joe overlapped at the USCG Academy, Bruce and Andrea were classmates at Parkside Elementary, and Bruce and I are lifelong friends. Joe was an accomplished man and well loved. He lived a great life.

A great friend, classmate, and Coast Guard Officer. He will always be admired and remembered.