John Michael Coughlin, age 61 of New Richmond, passed away unexpectedly on August 22, 2015.  John was born on May 27, 1954 in Hudson, WI, the son of John Patrick and Donna Mae (Simon) Coughlin.  He graduated from Cretin High School, class of 1972.  He furthered his education at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Theater in 1976. John met and fell in love with Mary Beth Arthaud in 1980, while both were active in theater.  They were united in marriage on January 25, 1989 on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.  In 1991, John and Mary Beth welcomed their beautiful daughter, Erin. 

John worked as the Executive Director of the United Way of St. Croix Valley for over 20 years and was currently serving as the Board President of United Way of Wisconsin.  John was active in his community, serving as president of the Bass Lake Rehabilitation District and involved with the New Richmond Rotary Club.  He loved living on Bass Lake, in what had been the summer home of his grandparents, James and Edna Simon.  He treasured his time on the lake, captaining his pontoon boat with family and friends.  He was a train enthusiast, and enjoyed working on his garden railroad.  John was a proud and devoted Green Bay Packer, Minnesota Twins and Wild fan; and took pleasure in his Fantasy Football league.  John, Mary Beth and Erin were fortunate to share many travels and created endless special memories. John was an amazing dad, who cheered Erin on at track meets, was always willing to listen and to act silly with her. John had a gracious heart, always wanting to make the world a better place, and make a difference in his community.  His smart wit, sense of humor, and loving spirit will be dearly missed.

John will remain in the hearts of his loving wife, Mary Beth; daughter, Erin; parents, John and Donna Coughlin; brothers, Steve and Thomas Coughlin; mother-in-law, Joyce Arthaud; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Susan, Ann, Joseph, Greg (Lisa) and Ron (Gail); aunts, Mary Matthews and Yvonne Furr; uncle, James (Christine) Simon; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and countless friends and colleagues.  He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Raymond Arthaud; and brother-in-law, Richard Arthaud.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place 11:00 AM Thursday, August 27, 2015 at St. Anne’s Catholic Church 141 Church Hill Rd., Somerset. Visitation will take place 5:00 – 7:00 PM Wednesday, August 26th at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson, and one hour prior to Mass at church.  A Eulogy will be shared during the visitation one hour prior to Mass at the church.  Private interment will take place at St. Anne’s Catholic Cemetery.  Memorials are preferred to the United Way of St. Croix Valley.