I just returned from a trip and had an email from Joanie Madden that Jim Coogan, Mary Coogan’s Dad died on November 24th of Leukemia.
Jim was a great button accordian player and I loved to hear him play. It was a joy to be in a session with Jim because in those pauses between tunes or afterward, sharing a beer, he could make your sides ache with his jokes and stories.
Jim was a man full of life and joy and he touched the hearts of all who knew him and they could not help loving him and wanting to be his friend.
I was very fortunate that I went to Joanie’s Spring Fling in Ireland, and Jim, even though he was weak and not well, was determined to go and I got to spend a week with him. I will never forget the session in Matt Malloy’s Pub and on one set, Jim takes off playing something and Matt Malloy just sat there beaming and listening to Jim play some old tunes that Matt said he had not heard in many years. It was a moment of Crac that I will never forget.
Jim Coogan was not as famous as some people in the TRAD, but the people who knew him, had a deep respect and love for him and his music, his jokes, his stories and most of all for the pleasure of his comanionship and friendship. I am a blessed man for having known him, only for a couple of years. His loss is a great sadness to us who loved him, but the memories of our time with Jim will never be forgotten. His funeral is today at 11AM EST, at the time I am writing these words.
I know that most of the people on this forum are whistle players, but also most of you love the TRAD and all who have contributed to it. We are all diminished by the loss of men like Jim Coogan, who has touched and shared with so many. Please pray for Mary Coogan and all Jim’s family and if you want to do more, I have included a couple of things below that will allow you to express your support for Mary at this difficult time.
All the best
Mike
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Jim may be made to Castle Point VA Hospital, Castle Point, NY 12511
To send a personal condolence or for directions to the funeral home, please visit BrooksFH.com, or call 845-561-8300.
