Gerald E. Coon

CHARDON- Gerald E. Coon, 84, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Chardon Woods Nursing Home.
Born on December 9, 1940, in Gustavus Twp, OH, he was a son of the late Lloyd and Corrine (Switzer) Coon. After graduating high school, Gerald's journey continued as a student at The Ohio State University, where he played basketball and earned a bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering. His academic accomplishments laid the foundation for a life of commitment and bravery. During the Vietnam War, Gerald proudly served as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps from May 27, 1965, to December 15, 1969. His bravery in service earned him two Purple Hearts, a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Medal 31st Award, Vietnam Captain Medal, and a Distinguished Flying Cross 1st Award.
Following his honorable discharge, Gerald's adventures took him to Texas, where he worked on an oil rig as a driller. His life took a joyful turn with the birth of his wife's first granddaughter, prompting their move back to the Andover area. It was there that Gerald rediscovered his passion in farming. He poured his heart and soul into working at a local farm and tending his greenhouses, vegetables, flowers, and plenty of fishing at the lake.
Gerald is survived by a loving family who will miss him dearly. This includes his stepdaughter, Renae (Matt) Pace of Northfield, Ohio; stepson, Richard (Shanna) Sroda of Texas; three grandchildren, Kayla Lapchynski, Robert (Caysie) Sroda and Richard James (Violet) Sroda; 4 great-grandchildren, Landon, Sylvia, Ben, and Raegan; two brothers, Darl (Janice) Coon of Andover, Ohio, and Howard (Bonnie McAndrew) Coon of Berkshire, New York, along with his sister, Ellen Thompson of Pittsburgh, PA, and 10 nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 32 years, Alice (Fay) Coon, his brother, Arthur Coon and his sister, Thelma Parish.
Visitation will take place at Baumgardner Funeral Home, 134 Prospect Street, Andover OH 44003, on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM immediately followed by military honors starting at 11:45 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 5700 Brecksville Road, 3rd Floor, Independence, OH 44131.
Baumgardner Funeral and Cremation Service, 134 Prospect Street, Andover, OH 444003, assisted the family with final arrangements. Share a fond memory or condolence at www.baumgardnerfuneralhome.com.