Obituary: Jaye Ann Coon

As received from the Pearce Funeral Home:

Jaye Ann Coon of Hancock, Michigan passed away peacefully at home, lovingly surrounded by family, on April 26, 2021.

Jaye was born December 7, 1956 to the late Jay Bernard “Bernie” and Maxine Ann (Ries) Coon in Rantoul, Illinois at the Chanute Air Force Base. She attended Hancock Central High School, graduating in 1974.  That same year, Jaye was crowned Strawberry Queen at the Chassell Strawberry Festival.

Jaye attended Suomi College, graduating with honors with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. As a nurse, Jaye worked at UP Health System – Portage for 28 years, in Surgery and the Emergency Department. She was well loved among colleagues and patients alike; known for her passion, humor, work ethic, and care of patients.

Among many personal hobbies, Jaye was an accomplished artist specializing in painting, creating works of art in a sun-filled room facing the lake. Her artwork intertwined perfectly with her eclectically cozy home. An avid reader, Jaye had a vast home library which includes hundreds of books from all genres. In the summers, she tended her gardens and enjoyed time by the lake with family. She was also known for her whimsical and delicious baked goods, including cakes, as well as family-style cooking.

Jaye is survived by her children Jesse Bourgo (Jessica Borsum) of Minot, North Dakota, Jamie Bourgo (Tyler Jansen) of Houghton, Michigan, and Patric Peters of Hancock, Michigan; grandchildren Clara and Esmae Borsum of Minot, North Dakota and Wyatt Jansen of Houghton, Michigan; mother, Maxine Coon of Hancock, Michigan; siblings Cindy (Steve) Wageman of Gillette, Wyoming; Gretchen (Jay) Kristola of Calumet, Michigan, Kathy (Joe) Marino of Houghton, Michigan, Jean Coon of Novi, Michigan, and Michael (Amy) Coon of Hancock, Michigan; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Preceding Jaye in death include father Jay Bernard “Bernie” Coon and aunt Clara Susan “Susie” Coon.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking to make a donation in Jaye’s name to the Portage Lake District Library or the Copper Country Community Arts Center.

Private family services will be held at a later date.  The Pearce Funeral Home in Lake Linden is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences maybe left at pearcefuneralhome.com