Barbara A. Coogan, 76, sadly and unexpectedly passed away on June 8, 2026, in South Beloit, Illinois. Born on November 29, 1949, in Miami, Arizona, daughter to Harry and Ruby (Monroe) Murray. Barb would go on to become a woman whose life touched many through her warmth, dedication, and genuine care. Throughout her life, Barb wore many hates with grace and strength; in her working career, she lent her talents in merchandise, waitressing, and over the years held management positions across several businesses. In 1992, after becoming a mother and making sure her children were ready to embrace the world, Barb made the courageous decision to go back to school. She would attend Elgin Community College, and she graduated with the honor of valedictorian. Barb’s dedication was only matched by her genuine heart. Many could say (and probably have already), that Barb’s name should have been Cathy, for she was a true “Chatty Cathy.” In conversation it was easy to feel loved by Barb, for she made you feel remembered and cherished. Your birthday, anniversary, or a small detail shared in passing were never forgotten. Her care was always genuine and heartfelt. On March 16, 2001, Barb would stand at the altar with her forever love, Larry Coogan, and they would go on to share almost two decades of cherished memories before his passing in January of 2020. Even after Larry left this earth, the bonds that Barb shared with his family remained steadfast and dear to her heart. The Coogan family relationships and invitations to gatherings were cherished profoundly and she was deeply thankful. If you were to ask about Barb’s passions, you would probably find yourself talking about the Chicago Blackhawks, Bears, Cubs, NASCAR, or, if more recently, a little golf. Music and outdoor concerts were best shared with family and friends, and her love for her friends and family extended to any furry friend brought into her life.

She will be missed by those who loved her most, her daughter Kitty, her son Stan (Kathy), and bonus son, Kevin Mousley; her brother Harry (Cathy) Murray II; best friends Danny and Niki Hedberg, and their family; special cousins, Mary and Denny Walrack; Larry’s children William (Dawn) Coogan, Michael (Nikki) Coogan, and Andrea Coogan; grandchildren Ryan, Jacklyn, Jessica, Felicia, Tiffany, Kristina (Zach), Cody (Kayla), Clayton (Ieasha), and Javier (Karla); great-grandchildren Kaylyn, Mary, Alayna, Juliette, JR., Shawn, and Adriel, Hallie, Harper, Malakai, and Winona; lastly, but certainly not least, Barbs handsome feline companion, Max. She is predeceased by her mother and father; beloved husband Larry; Kitty’s partner and Barb’s bonus son, Kevin Farr; brothers-in-law Jackie, Eugene, and Patrick; Larry’s granddaughter Mikaela; niece, Ashley, and special aunt Helen Reganti.

Cremation rites were accorded to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel. A celebration of Barb’s life will take place at a later date, among a family gathering honoring all of their passed loved ones. Barb will be placed to rest at Larry’s side in St. Paul Cemetery in Mineral Point, Wisconsin.