John L. Coates

John L. Coates, 81 of Fowlersville, went home to his Lord and Savior peacefully November 30, 2017 surrounded by his family at home. He was born September 3, 1936 in Kingston, a son to the late John W. and Ruth (Harding) Coates. John was a 1953 graduate of Larksville High School. He also was a graduate of Wilkes University where he earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees. He worked first as the financial controller for the Okanite Cable Company and later for Bercon Plastics. He next served as President of LaBar Trucking. In 1989 he became owner of Tri-County Hardware, and in 1992 of Tri-County Lumber until 2016. He also served in the Naval Reserve from 1953 until 1962. John was a member of the Berwick Bible Church where he served as an elder, a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and youth leader. He also was a member of the board of directors for First Keystone Community Bank. Church and family time were most important to John. He was glad for opportunities to help people as a financial and spiritual mentor. Playing golf, working, enjoying his grandchildren and friends, traveling, sports events, gardening, and board games were his favorite past times. Surviving John is his loving wife of 59 years, the former Gloria Andress. Also surviving are daughters: Cheryl Hunt of Berwick and Laura Kline and husband Dan of FL, sons: John O. Coates and wife, Rachel of North Centre Township, and Andrew Coates of Philadelphia, grandchildren: Gary D. Hunt, John B. Coates, Evan R. Coates, and Violet M. Coates, and brother-in-law, Richard Andress and wife, Betty of West Wyoming. A kind and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, John will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. John's funeral is 11:30 Saturday, December 9th at the Berwick Bible Church, 1426 Spring Garden Ave., Berwick.The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 until time of the funeral. Pastor Carl Miller will serve as the officiant. Burial will follow at Elan Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Berwick Bible Church or Commonwealth Home Health & Hospice of Berwick at 109 W. 9th St., Berwick, PA.18603.