Memorial

With sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Denise Coates, 76 of Cedar Rapids, Iowa on Sunday October 19, 2025, at West Ridge Care Center.  She battled with liver disease for many years.  She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 on Sunday October 26, 2025, at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral home.  The Rosary will begin at 4:00 PM, followed by the Vigil service.  A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 AM, Monday October 27, 2025, at St. Matthew Catholic Church.  The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church.  Inurnment will take place at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.

Denise was born on March 30, 1949, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the daughter of Alex and Rosalie (Homsey) Nofal.  She married Richard “Dick” Coates Sr on February 15, 1969, at Immaculate Conception Church in Cedar Rapids.  Along with the marriage she was gifted with 2 daughters Lynnette of Cedar Rapids, IA and Paula of Maricopa, AZ., and a son Rich (Rita) of Cedar Rapids, IA.   Their last child Dena of Roanoke, VA was born of this union.

Denise worked for many years as the Mailroom Director at Coe College in Cedar Rapids and later was the secretary at Immaculate Conception Church where she retired.  She and her husband were very active in their parish, and she was involved in multiple Parish activities.  She was a member of Catholic Daughters of the Americas.

Denise was a very faithful person who loved her family deeply.  Her relationship with her husband was a joy for all to see.  She had many lifelong friends that she was devoted to and was always an independent woman full of spunk. She will be greatly missed by all who know her.

She is survived by her children, 12 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.  2 sisters Mary and Sue, 2 brothers Gene and Bob, along with many other extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents Alex and Rosalie, her husband Richard, 2 sisters Corinne and Laurice, and 2 grandchildren.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to West Ridge Care Center and the Hospice of Mercy staff, for all their love and assistance during Denise’s final days.

Memorial donations in Denise’s name may be made to Hospice of Mercy.