John Coolman

John Paul Coolman, 79, of Charlevoix, passed from his earthly home to be with his Lord and Savior on December 1, 2024. He was born on January 14, 1945 in Mahopac, New York, the son of Paul and Bertha (Trages) Coolman. 

John grew up in Huntington, Indiana where he attended Huntington High School and graduated from Parsons College, Fairfield, IA, in 1967. He married Dianne Auffant October 7th 1967 at the First Baptist Church of Tarrytown, NY. John’s company transferred them to northern Michigan in spring of 1979 where they found their forever home in Charlevoix, MI and raised their three wonderful children. 

Living in northern Michigan and especially, Charlevoix served as the backdrop for John’s passions and joys of life. He discovered his love of sailing here which became a family tradition that paired well with his love of cooking and entertaining. John’s faith in God was central to his life and he was a long time member of the Community Reformed Church where he served as a Deacon. As long time Treasurer for the Charlevoix Community Christmas Project, John donated his time and talent in support of the Charlevoix community. 

John and family spent many years involved with the Charlevoix Yacht Club where he served as Commodore and enjoyed racing his sailboat, Cool Whip, Wednesday nights on Lake Charlevoix. He derived immense joy from watching his children and eventually, his grandchildren in sports and school activities.

Although separated by many miles, from his brother and sisters, John cherished his regular facetime calls with Doug, Pat and Nancy. 

John is survived by his loving wife; Dianne Coolman of Charlevoix, Michigan, 3 children; Russell (Kathleen) Coolman of Braselton, Georgia, Christy (Monty) McKentry of Frisco, Texas, Brian (Sarah King) Coolman of Western Springs, Illinois, brother; Charles (Konnie) Coolman of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 2 sisters; Nancy Williams of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Patricia (Mike) Seifert of Prescott Valley, Arizona, 6 grandchildren; Kate & Brian Coolman, Sofia & Kobe McKentry, Connor & Olivia Coolman and many loving nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents.A memorial celebration remembering John will be held next summer in Charlevoix where family and friends plan to come together in true Coolman style. Family, friends, and food on the shores of Oyster Bay and Lake Charlevoix where so many fond memories were made with the people and place he loved. Details will be shared at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Charlevoix Community Christmas Project c/o Community Reformed Church, 109 Elm Street, Charlevoix, MI, 49720 (cvx.christmas@gmail.com).  https://communityreformed.simplechurchcrm.com/external/form/ec1a3e88-9402-4543-8d12-2759d20ddc2f

“I am the Resurrection and the life; those who believe in Me, though they die, will live; and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.” John 11:25-26

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.