Wyoming State Senator Hank Coe: 1946-2021

Wyoming State Senator and Park County resident Hank Coe passed away on Thursday, Jan. 21. He was 74 years old.

Cody Mayor Matt Hall and former Democratic candidate for Wyoming District 6 Britney Walleesch confirmed Coe’s death. It was officially announced during a meeting of the Wyoming Legislature’s Agriculture, State, and Public Lands & Water Resources Committee.

Sen. Hank Coe leant his support to my campaign. It was an act of kindness, compassion, and hope for our state's future. News of his passing today leaves me deeply saddened. Rest easy, Sen. Coe – and thank you for showing us that relationships are everything. ???????? #wyoleg

— Britney Wallesch (@brit_wallesch) January 21, 2021

Hank Coe served as the State Senator of District 18 for 32 years, first elected to the position in 1989. During his time in the Senate, he was Vice President (1997-1998) Majority Floor Leader (1999-2000), and Senate president (2001-2002)

He also served as chairman of the Education and Joint Education Committees during the 2019-2020 sessions.

Before that, Coe served as a Park County Commissioner (1978-1986.)

Coe announced that he would not be seeking another term in March 2020. His last day in office was Jan. 3.

He is survived by his wife and three children.

Wyoming Congresswoman and House Republican Conference Chair Liz Cheney (R-WY) issued the following statement on the passing of Senator Coe:

“Hank Coe was a friend and a role model to all who met him. He lived an exceptional life and leaves behind a remarkable legacy of selfless leadership and service on behalf of the people of Park County, and our entire state. My thoughts and condolences are with all of his loved ones during this difficult time. We will all deeply miss his presence in our lives.”

This a developing story. More information will be posted as it becomes available.

Courtesy Wyoming Legislature