Marie Jeanne Coyne
September 8, 1956 – September 12, 2015
Jeanne Coyne passed away peacefully at home in Piedmont on Saturday, September 12, 2015. She spent her life immersed in the love of family and friends drawn by her warm and generous personality and elegant social grace. She filled this world with her formidable self and all of the light, love and joy that came with her.
Born to Edmund and Zize Coyne, Jeanne spent her earliest years in Coronado before the family returned to the Bay Area and Marin where she attended San Dominico School, Marin Catholic and San Rafael High School. She also studied at the American College of Switzerland in Leysin, where her love of world travel developed, and finally Dominican University.
Jeanne was first married to her high school sweetheart, Cortney Balzan, and together they produced a fine son, Patrick Balzan, who became the focus of her love and attention forevermore.
Jeanne was later married to John Maddex of Piedmont, and together they made a wonderful life for themselves and Patrick.
Patrick married the lovely Meghan Conn and together they produced Jeanne’s adorable granddaughter, Bryn, who gave her immense joy.
Boating was always present in their active lives. Jeanne, John and Patrick spent many summers aboard their classic boat Nobody’s Perfect exploring the waters of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle and the San Juan Islands, and also enjoying their home in Incline Village.
Jeanne was the loving sister of Charles Coyne (Katie), Ed Coyne (Jane), Chris Coyne and Michael Coyne (Terry). Together with her brothers, Jeanne owned and managed the River View Marina and the historic Riverboat Delta King in Sacramento. There she cultivated friendship with many who shared her enthusiasm for boating and the waterfront.
Jeanne was very proud of her Irish and French heritage, always honoring her parents and grandparents who had paved the way for her.
Jeanne taught us to say “yes” to every opportunity for joy and laughter that comes our way. She was always organizing holiday parties, bridal showers, baby showers, family reunions; any opportunity to bring together the friends and extended family that she loved so much.
Jeanne was athletic, an avid skier who spent many joyful days on the slopes around Lake Tahoe. She was also an animal lover, beekeeper, floral designer and gardener who enjoyed playing horseshoes in the backyard.
Jeanne was predeceased by her husband, John Maddex and sister-in-law, Jane Coyne. She is survived by her son, Patrick Balzan, daughter-in-law, Meghan Conn Balzan, and granddaughter, Bryn. Jeanne also leaves behind Patrick’s father, Cortney Balzan and beloved in-laws, Bob Balzan (Linda, aka “Bird”), Darlene Balzan; and Leanne Ceccotti and numerous wonderful nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Jeanne’s Life will be held at 1:30 pm on Friday, September 25 at the Piedmont Community Church with a reception to follow. Please contact the family for further information or email Jeannecoynecelebration@gmail.com.
Donations in Jeanne’s memory may be made to the Bonnie Addario Lung Cancer Foundation (www. lungcancerfoundation.org); Advokids (www.advokids. org); or Lifehouse (www. lifehouseagency.org).