Stanley “Stan” Burton Coe, 93, died August 9, 2026, in Pullman, Washington.

Born in 1933 in the small town of Orting, Washington, Stan grew up just beyond the flanks of Mount Rainier, where a vast assortment of summer jobs developed his strong work ethic. That ethic would characterize his career and endeavors throughout his life.

He chose to attend Washington State University, where he met his future wife, Marjorie, and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1957, beginning a lifelong dedication to WSU and his beloved Cougars.

After graduation, Stan joined Dr. Thomas Guilfoil and his wife, Ruth, at Guilfoil Animal Hospital in Seattle, beginning a veterinary career that would span more than four decades at the practice that later became Elliott Bay Animal Hospital. Stan built a distinguished career marked by leadership in his profession, service to his community and an enduring commitment to the people and animals in his care, aided throughout by Marjorie’s steadfast support and considerable skills.

Stan served his profession and community in numerous roles, including president of the Washington State Veterinary Medical Association, the WSU Alumni Association, and two Kiwanis clubs, to name a few. He accepted recognition for his contributions with his characteristic humility.

His dedication, generosity and commitment to service were perhaps best exemplified by his work with what is now the Doney Coe Pet Clinic. Founded through the vision of Dr. Charles “Bud” Doney and the efforts of his wife, Nancy, the clinic came under Stan’s stewardship after Bud’s death. With help from his longtime business partner, Dr. John Kelly, Stan expanded its reach by recruiting and organizing volunteer veterinarians and staff from his extensive professional network. In 2018, the clinic was renamed the Doney Coe Pet Clinic in recognition of his many years of service and contribution.

It was important to Stan to give back to Washington State University for all it had given him. He did so by generously giving his time, leadership and support to WSU, its Foundation, its Alumni Association, its College of Veterinary Medicine and Cougar Athletics. In 2001, WSU recognized that extraordinary commitment with the prestigious Weldon B. Gibson Distinguished Volunteer Award.

Stan loved being around friends and family. His trademark lightning-quick wit was well known to both. He took great pride in his three grandsons, their varied interests, skills, hobbies and accomplishments. In his later years, he delighted in becoming a great-grandfather three times over.

Stan’s passion for sports was unmistakable. He proudly drove through the heart of Husky country with the license plate “WAZZU1.” He was also an inaugural Seattle Seahawks season-ticket holder and remained an enthusiastic fan throughout his life. Beyond the accomplishments and honors, Stan will be remembered for the countless ways he touched the lives of others. The many remembrances shared since his death speak to a life measured not by awards and titles, but by small acts of grace and kindness.

Stan was preceded in death by his parents, Burton Arthur and Margaret Webber Coe; his wife of 51 years, Marjorie Rowland Coe; his grandson, Blake James Coe; his sisters, Barbara Kendall and Jeanette Duff; and his longtime companion, Betty Kreager.

He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Zaring; his son, Stanley “Rusty” Coe and his wife, Jacque; his sister, Carolyn Balmer; grandsons Zachary and Austin Zaring; great-grandchildren Zeke, Annabelle and Boone Zaring; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Celebrations of Stan’s life are being planned in both Seattle and Pullman, with dates and details to be announced.

Those wishing to honor Stan’s memory may consider a contribution to the Doney Coe Pet Clinic, 2212 Queen Anne Ave N #702, Seattle, WA 98109; or to the College of Veterinary Medicine and/or Student Athletic Fund, WSU Foundation, PO Box 641927, Pullman, WA 99164.