Jack Coffman

The Pioneer Press reports that longtime former state Capitol reporter Jack Coffman has died. That's sad news for all who knew him and respected his work. He was a good competitor and colleague, and we send our condolences to his family and friends.

Jack was a dear, dear friend. He was one of the first reporters I met at the Capitol when I started working there in 1985. Always wry, always funny and always asking the hard questions - I learned so much about the Capitol and how the media works in the legislative arena. On a personal note, he become a close friend and confidant and I will miss him dearly. My love to Lindy and the boys, and Jack's loving family and his special colleagues, Dick, Bill and Bruce. All of your dad's stories and friendship over the years are a treasured memory. He will be missed. Jenny

I worked with Jack at Goff & Howard, and on top of being a fantastic writer and photographer, we was one of the most vivacious, charismatic and interesting people I have ever met. He was one of those few people that was always in the middle of something that inspired him and those around him. My deepest condolences to his family and friends, which no doubt make up a wide circle of people.

The first time I met Jack, the glint in his eye and the smile on his face made me feel welcome and comfortable. I only new Jack for around three years but he always treated me like an old, trusted friend. The morning of his passing, he and I shot some architectural images around Western and Selby in St Paul. It was a beautiful time, sharing ideas and stories, one that I will always remember. He shared his ideas, passions, and love for the beauty in life with those of us at the Freight Box Photography Studio of which he was the backbone and one of the founders. An inspiring individual, his photography made you feel good about life, and appreciate the beauty in people. My sincere condolences to his family. I am lucky to have known Jack.