Johanna Elizabeth Coenen

Johanna E. Coenen, age 63, passed away on March 28, 2025, from complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), in Madison, Wisconsin. Born on December 12, 1961, in Neenah, Wisconsin. Johanna was a 1980 graduate of Menasha Public High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a focus on Economics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1985.

Following graduation, Johanna moved to Washington, D.C., where she served as a Legislative Aide for Congressman Gerald Kleczka. She later worked at the World Bank. In DC she began her desire to work for justice and equality issues.

Returning to Madison, she was very involved in political issues, volunteering time for progressive causes and candidates. She also found time to volunteer for environmental efforts through land conservation, prairie restoration, and volunteering at various green spaces throughout Dane County. Johanna also embraced the arts, finding delight in Brazilian dance and percussion.

She is survived by her brothers Nick (Liz) Coenen, Peter (Sue) Coenen, and Toby (Colleen Frost) Coenen. She also leaves behind her niece Liz Coenen and nephews Daniel and David Coenen. She is further survived by two aunts, Carol Coenen OP and Theo Coenen, and many cousins and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Rodney Coenen, and her mother, Jean (Schrup) Coenen.

Johanna’s gift was making people smile. She had many friends whom she cherished. She especially loved small children and babies, which her niece and nephews will attest to. Johanna also loved animals and never failed to stop to pet a dog, knowing the names of all the dogs in her neighborhood. She loved the wildlife in her yard, even when rabbits ravaged her garden. She went so far as to ignore the spiders which spun their webs in her basement believing they’d leave when their time was right.

May Johanna’s example of advocacy, tolerance, and friendship be her legacy and an inspiration to others.

There will be an informal gathering for Johanna’s friends to share memories and celebrate her life on May 31st from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Cress Funeral Home, 6021 University Avenue in Madison, Wisconsin. Food and drinks will be provided.

Please share your memories of Johanna by posting on her Tribute Wall.

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406