Obituary: Eugene Auguste Coffin III

Eugene Auguste Coffin III passed away on June 14, 2025, in Juneau, Alaska, at the age of 85. A devoted husband, father, and proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, Eugene’s life was marked by service, dedication, and a deep connection to both his family and community.

Eugene Auguste Coffin III

Born on November 30, 1939, in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Eugene was part of a distinguished lineage of Coast Guard service. Following in the footsteps of his father, Captain Eugene Coffin Jr., and grandfather, Rear Admiral Eugene A. Coffin Sr., Eugene upheld the family tradition with honor. Alongside his three brothers — who also joined the Coast Guard before pursuing other paths — the Coffin family collectively contributed over a century of service to the nation.

After graduating high school in 1959, Eugene enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. Over a remarkable thirty-six-year career as a Quartermaster Senior Chief (E-8), he served aboard numerous cutters and buoy tenders across the country and beyond. His first assignment was aboard USCGC Modoc in Coos Bay, OR (1959–1962), followed by tours on USCGC Northwind in Seattle, WA (1962–1963), USCGC McLane in Brownsville, TX (1963), USCGC Reliance in Corpus Christi, TX (1964–1965), USCGC Planetree in Honolulu, HI (1965-1967), and USCGC Hollyhock in Miami Beach, FL (1967–1970). 

In 1970, Eugene began his long association with Juneau when he was stationed aboard the USCGC Sweetbrier until 1973. He later served on USCG Midgett in Alameda, CA (1973–1974) and USCGC Tamaroa based out of Governor’s Island, NY and New Castle, NH (1983–1986). His shore assignments included Base Galveston, TX (1963–1964), Base Miami Beach, FL (1974–1977), Search and Rescue desk at the Federal Building in Juneau, AK (1977–1983; 1986–1988), the USCG Academy in New London, CT (1988–1993), and finally with the Aids to Navigation Office team in Juneau until his retirement in 1995.

While serving aboard the USCGC Hollyhock, Eugene married Janet Magaril in June 1968. Their union spanned 57 years of shared adventures and enduring love. In March 1977, while stationed at Coast Guard Base Miami Beach, they welcomed their daughter Julie into their lives.

Following his retirement from active duty, Eugene continued to serve his community through an eleven-year tenure at the Alaska State Museum. His commitment to public service extended beyond professional roles — he was a familiar figure around downtown Juneau where he could often be seen walking its hills clad in his signature yellow raingear.

Eugene also remained active with the United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association (CPOA). He brought joy to many by playing Santa Claus at senior dinners and while selling raffle tickets for CPOA events. He also lent a hand at their annual Fourth of July hot dog stand — an event that brought together community members and celebrated camaraderie.

Eugene is survived by his beloved wife Janet and their daughter Julie. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alaska State Firefighters Association or to Foundation of Life through Bartlett Regional Hospital — designated to Hospice — in memory of Eugene Coffin.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who value service above self. A Memorial Service will be held on July 26, 2025, from noon to 3 p.m. at Chapel by the Lake; 11024 Auke Lake Way. 

A Memorial Gathering will be held on August 1, 2025, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. near Sentinel Island Lighthouse. If you wish to attend, please let Janet or Julie know by July 30, 2025. Meet at the commercial ramp in front of DeHart's (11497 Auke Bay Harbor Rd), catamaran will depart promptly at 6:30 p.m., please arrive least 30 minutes prior.