Francis X. Coon

Francis X. Coon, 80, of Topeka, passed away September 14, 2010 at Plaza West Regional Health Center.

He was born November 20, 1929 in St. Marys the son of John and Marie (Brunin) Coon.  Francis graduated from St. Marys High School in 1947.  He was a Sergeant 1st Class in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

Francis was a route salesman for Sealtest for many years.  He also was a disabled veteran.

He participated in National Veterans Golden Age Games for twelve years and was a Multiple Sclerosis Father of the Year.  Francis coached baseball, softball, football, basketball and volleyball.

Francis was a member of Sacred Heart/St. Joseph Parish, Knights of Columbus Council # 650 at St. Marys, Post # 450 of the VFW and Post #400 of the American Legion.

He was married to Loraine Gantz on April 7, 1951 at St. Theresa’s Church in Perry.  She preceded him in death on November 27, 1994.  He was also predeceased by his parents, and three brothers, Joe, Larry and Jere.

Survivors include two sons, Patrick Coon of Topeka and William Coon of Lawrence, four daughters, Barbara O’Connor of Topeka, Cynthia Summers of Overland Park, KS., Karen McGill of Topeka and Sharon Eisenhut of Springboro, OH, two brothers, Bill Coon of Leawood and Jack Coon of Orland Park, IL.  Seventeen grandchildren and two great grandchildren also survive. 

Francis will lie in state from 11:30 to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 17th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church where a parish rosary will be prayed at 1:00 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, September 17th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  Burial will follow in West Lawn Memorial Gardens with military honors provided by a funeral detail from

American Legion Post #400.

Memorial contributions may be made to Veterans Golden Age Games, VFW Post #450 or Sacred Heart/St. Joseph Parish and sent in care of the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka 66603.

Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com.