^{Janie Coats}

Janie Silva Coats, 74, passed away Sunday, December 30 following the effects of a lifelong illness. She was born August 21, 1933.

A native of the valley, she attended Johnson Joint Elementary School where she began her love of music and animals. She continued her schooling at Hilmar High School where she met an extra special 1952 classmate, Roy Coats; they eloped in 1953. The newlyweds headed to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1955 while he served in the U.S. Army and she continued her career in banking. They returned to their home in Delhi, and lived for 53 years.

It is difficult to speak of Janie alone without mentioning Roy, as they were inseparable throughout their life together, doing everything together. They shared management of the nationally acclaimed liquid feed business, Ideal Lab, but the true passion was evidenced in their love of animals, which was consummate and ongoing.

They were nationally known for the breeding, raising, and showing of Morgan horses, the highlight being a Ladies Park Harness World Championship in Oklahoma City where Janie was crowned “the best.” In addition, there were a multitude of state and local horse awards. Also, a large herd of registered Shorthorn cattle were maintained on the ranch throughout their lifetime and they also were shown and won a United States reputation.

Janie loved her dogs. She raised and showed Doberman Pinchers and Australian Shepherds enjoying the companionship, training and competition of “her kids''. Of course that included a variety of pets such as dogs, cats, a donkey, chickens, pot bellied pig, and sheep, to name a few! It was through these activities that lifelong friendships were established, maintained and treasured. Upon the death of her husband in 2006 she continued to keep the farm running, never complaining and planning for the future. She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews along with many friends. Janie will be sadly missed.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday January 11, 2008 at Turlock Funeral Home Chapel. She will be laid to rest at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to Alley Cat Guardians, P.O. Box 576061, Modesto, CA 95357

(Obituary from The Modesto Bee)