Linda Louise Coughlin

Linda Louise Coughlin, 81, passed away peacefully, although unexpectedly, in her sleep at her home in Mukilteo, Washington.

She was born in Bellingham, Washington, to Winfield “Windy” and Evelyn (née Zimprich) Wilkinson. She grew up along with her brothers Bob Wilkinson and Dick Wilkinson on a farm in Ferndale, Washington where her father trained thoroughbred race horses.

Linda attended Ferndale High School, graduating in 1962, and continued her studies at Western Washington State College earning her teaching degree in 1966. She was a teacher for 30 years mostly in the Marysville, Washington School District until her retirement in 1996.

While at Portland Meadows in Oregon, Linda met John Coughlin of Seattle, WA, who shared her love of horse racing. They eventually married in 1992, spending the next 13 years together enjoying golf, horse racing, and travel to places including Alaska, Hawaii, Lake Tahoe, Sayulita Mexico, and Palm Springs. John was the love of Linda’s life. Unfortunately he passed away far too soon in 2005.

Linda had a tenacious spirit. After John’s passing she became a true “snow bird”, spending the winter months living in Palm Springs where she had an abundance of dear friends that she loved and cherished. She was fun, spontaneous, the life of the party, always ready for the next big adventure, making new friends wherever she went.

Linda never forgot a birthday or special occasion. She loved dancing, reading books, watching the Seahawks and the Mariners, and cooking shows (in spite of the fact that she claimed she didn’t like to cook). She enjoyed delicious food and a chilled vodka martini “up with a twist”. Every Friday afternoon she could be found with her neighbors at the clubhouse for cocktail hour. Linda’s relationships were intentional. She was a shining bright light in the lives of all those that knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed.

Linda is survived by her nephew Wes (Vivian) Wilkinson and family, niece Patti (Brian) Erickson and family, nephew Roger (Lynn) Wilkinson and family, sister-in-law Lois Wilkinson Haddock, her dear friends Carol Best, David Smith, Ricky Purnell, Jeannie Geddis, and many more close friends and special cousins too numerous to mention. She was preceded in death by her parents Windy and Evelyn Wilkinson, her two brothers Bob and Dick Wilkinson, and her beloved husband John Coughlin.

At Linda’s request no service will be held. She would have simply asked that all make a toast and say, “Cheers to a life well lived!” 

Remembrances may be made to Everett Gospel Mission, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements entrusted to Beck’s Tribute Center, Edmonds WA.