Longtime Niles Resident Jack Coffinger Dies at 84

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Jack L. Coffinger, an 84-year-old former resident of Niles, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026 at Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital in Saint Joseph, Michigan. Coffinger was a father, grandfather, honorable veteran, ceramicist, and avid Nintendo bowler who lived a full life centered around his family, community, and lifelong hobbies.

Why it matters

Coffinger's story reflects the values and experiences of many longtime Niles residents - a commitment to family, service, and community-oriented hobbies and small businesses that have defined the character of the city for generations. His passing marks the end of an era for this Midwestern town.

The details

Coffinger was born in Niles in 1941 and graduated from Niles High School in 1959. He served in the U.S. Air Force's Quartermaster Corps before returning to Niles, where he worked at local manufacturing plants Kawneer and Simplicity Pattern Company until his retirement in 2003. Coffinger was passionate about ceramics, creating award-winning artwork, and also enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, card games, and country music. He was particularly skilled at Nintendo bowling, much to the amusement of his grandchildren.

• Coffinger was born on December 16, 1941.
• He graduated from Niles High School in 1959.
• Coffinger served in the U.S. Air Force from 1959 to 1963.
• He married Priscilla Arvilla Robertson on December 20, 1969.
• Coffinger passed away on April 7, 2026 at the age of 84.