Former Member of Tribal Colony Dies at 86

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony and United States flags are flying at half-staff this week in recognition and in honor of William W. Coffey Jr., a former RSIC Tribal Council member, who died January 24, 2016. Coffey had served on the council for 22 years on and off between 1955 and 2000.

Coffey was born January 8, 1930, in Loyalton, California, and died at his home on the colony.

Coffey served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1948-1952 and during his enlistment, he was stationed at the Marine Barracks, Subic Bay in the Philippines. He was also proud to be part of the Nevada Honor Flight family, having traveled Washington D.C., to see memorials dedicated to honor his service and sacrifices.

A father of three, Coffey enjoyed making arrowheads and participating in community events at the colony. He is preceded in death by his mother Mable Kelly Coffey, his father William B. Coffey Sr., and his wife Marlene Hardin Coffey.

A viewing and visitation is scheduled from 6-8PM January 28 at O'Brien-Rogers & Crosby Funeral Home at 600 W. 2nd Street in Reno. A funeral service is scheduled for 11AM January 29 at the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Gym. Burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.