Grace Lydia (née Opfer) Coghlin
October 31, 2020
Passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at the age of 94 years. Grace has been the beloved wife of Maurice Alba (Mac) Coghlin for more than 71 years. She was “a dairyman’s daughter” of the late Henry and Alminda Opfer, of Listowel, Ontario. She was predeceased by her brother Harry, her sisters Marie and Muriel, and her twin brother Gordon. She was the cherished mother to Charles (Patricia) and William (Denise). She endured the tragic passing of her son Bill in 1992 with strength and dignity. Son-in-law Al Miller has been a thoughtful and compassionate caregiver to Grace in her later years. Grace was the loving grandmother to five grandchildren and one step-granddaughter: Heather Maclean (Ryan), Patrick Coghlin (Allison), Sean Coghlin (Megan), Brittan Ullrich (Doug), Erin Steeves (Dwayne), and Amanda Horrell (Jeremy). She also had nine great-grandchildren whom she loved very dearly. They will all miss her very much. Her greatest gift to those around her was her sense of humour, ready laugh, and her love of telling or hearing a good joke. She would often laugh so hard that she would cry. Sometimes she missed the punch line of the joke but this only made her laugh even more. The treasured memory of her laughter will always bring a smile to her family’s face. Grace was the secretary to William Jack, Principal of Listowel District Secondary School for over eight years, before moving to London with her husband, Mac, in 1954. After having her family, Grace returned to work as the Executive Secretary to the Head of Student Residences, Western University for 17 years. One of the highlights of Grace’s life was when she was able to travel to the Middle East for six weeks where her son was stationed at the time. She and Mac then spent a wonderful time in The Netherlands on their journey home. Grace loved her garden and most of all, her prize roses. She loved music and sang for 12 years in the St. Lawrence Church Choir. At her request, she will be cremated with no visitation. A memorial service will be conducted at St. Lawrence Presbyterian Church, 910 Huron Street, London, Ontario, in the future. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in memory of Grace are asked to consider the Alzheimer Society London and Middlesex or the Canadian Cancer Society.
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Mac, I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Grace. I can relate to your grief. Be assured it does get easier, but not much. If you are ever in the Aylmer area, drop in for a chat. Harold 519 773 2173
Our whole family condolences to you Mac and your family. I know it's been heartbreaking for you to see her go downhill. You have been by her side constantly, singing to her and telling her you love her. Its so hard for the ones left behind. She was so lovely. Always dressed beautiful. Always make up and hair done. She was always smiling and ready to tell you a joke or a fun story. There was never "dead air" when Grace around, she always filled the space with laughter. I will miss her. Blessings to you Mac. May you feel Gods presence to comfort you. She is in the arms of Jesus!! Praise the Lord!
Our condolences to Mac especially and the entire family. and especially to our daughter and son in-law Pat. Grace's lovely spirit will be sorely missed.
We will truly miss Grace. She was a happy soul who loved life, a good joke and a party. Always dressed with class and enjoyed friendly chats with friends. She adored Mac and loved her family. Grace had many friends and there never was a dull moment when Grace was in the room. We enjoyed singing in the choir with her and the many activities at St. Lawrence. She lived a full and active life until the last couple of years. Mac was always lovingly by her side and faithfully cared for her. She will be missed by many but there will be a new bright star shining in the heavens for Grace. May God welcome her in his arms and bless Mac as he feels her loss. He will treasure the wonderful memories of their time together that will bring comfort .
Maurice and Family, Bev & I just want you to know we are thinking of you. Seventy one years is so significant as so many couples are not that lucky. We will always remember Grace's love for her entre family of which she was so proud. Bev & Jim
We mourn the the loss of our dear cousin. Our sympathies to Mac and family. We both loved and admired Grace very much. She will be missed.
Hello Mac My sincere sympathy to you and your entire family - I'm a friend of both of you from the days of Listowel...and Opfer's Dairy. Grace was a force not only in your lives, but in so many others as well. Marsha Fulton
Grace was a special lady and a joy to be around. She will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are most definitely with you, Mac.
Charlie Pat&Family Sending our deepest sympathy to you and your family at this time. With our loveâ™¥ï¸ Susan Todd & Suzanne Watson
(Donated to Alzheimer Society London and Middlesex)
(Donated to Alzheimer Society London and Middlesex)
(Donated to Alzheimer Society London and Middlesex)
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she was a wonderful woman and a great friend to Mac. She will be missed by all who knew her. R.I.P. Grace
~ Alan W Keutsch