John Edward Cooledge

John Edward Cooledge

John Edward Cooledge known to many as "Coot" passed away peacefully on Saturday February 20th with his wife Shirley at his side. John would have been 90 years old this year. He grew up in the Libby Town area of Portland Maine and graduated from Deering high school, where he lettered in basketball and football. After High School he volunteered for service in the the U S Navy and served overseas. After his military service he worked in finance with the last 20 years of his career as the manager of the New England telephone workers credit union.

John was an amazing man who from a young age gave service to his country, his family and his community. He belonged to the Elks and Eagles organizations and he was also a Master Mason at Deering lodge in Portland Maine. After John retired he opened up a soup kitchen in Florida and a homeless shelter for men who were addicted to drugs and alcohol. He helped immigrants learn to read English and went to the hospital and strangers homes to pray over them through the Stephen Ministry, he was a selfless man. He spent the final 4 years of his life close to his family in the beautiful mountains of North Georgia where he was loved in his senior community of Brannon Lodge. If there were two word to describe John it would be kindness and humility. He will not be forgotten and will always be in our hearts. John had an unshakable faith in God that served him well and no matter what he faced he believed at his core that he was always protected.

John leaves behind his wife of 67 years Shirley Ann Cooledge (Knight) of Naples Florida and Blairsville Georgia. His children Lisa Cooledge of Naples Florida and his son retired Navy Captain Scott Cooledge and his wife Vasana Cooledge of Blairsville Georgia. Three Grandchildren Scott Michael Cooledge of Portland, Maine Eva Richardson of Naples,Fl. Evan Spahlinger of Naples,Fl. and 2 Great Grandchildren. His Sister Shirley Cooledge Michaud of Portland Maine. His sister in laws Nancy Billings Oak bluffs Ma. and Linda Cooledge of Portland Me.

He was Preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Bessie Cooledge of Portland Maine his brother's Kennith Cooledge Jr. and Clayton Cooledge his sister Marion Cooledge Mitchell all from Portland Maine. His Son Mark Cooledge of Portland Maine. John leaves behind many Nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews.

Only for a short time are we loaned to each other…..