Cecelia (Sis) Helena Coenen, age 87, of Chanhassen, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025.

Born on July 4, 1938, in New Bremen, Sis was the daughter of Clifford Harris and Jeanette Bessel. She grew up alongside her siblings Jean Lynne Thompson (Clint), Niles Clifford Harris, and Bette Karen (Trip) Davis. From an early age, she exhibited a bright intellect, strong independence, and a deep curiosity about the world.

Sis graduated from New Bremen High School and went on to earn her bachelor's degree from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, followed by a master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. She dedicated much of her professional life to education, beginning her teaching career at Cathedral Senior High School in Duluth, Minnesota, and later serving as a teacher and Chair of the Science Department at Wausau West High School. Her passion for teaching and commitment to her students left a lasting impact.

Sis later transitioned into real estate, where she worked as an agent and manager in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Her work ethic, leadership, and professionalism were admired by colleagues and clients alike.

She was married to Allan D. Pedersen and later to Ralph Coenen. Sis was a devoted mother, stepmother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished her family above all else.

She is survived by her children: Holly Pedersen (Brett Nitke), Penny Pedersen (Andrew Pankow), and Allan "Chip" Pedersen Jr. (Ann Bechard); and by her stepchildren: Paddi Coenen, Doug Coenen (Katie), Joseph Coenen (Nicole), John Coenen (Lisa), and Kelly Hoppe (Michael).

Her grandchildren include: Ryan Pedersen, Connor Pedersen, Trevor Pedersen, Alec Pankow (Natalie), Rudy Pankow, Henning Pankow, Blake Brawner (Alexa), Drew Brawner (Tom Tourdot), Hayley Wahlberg, Sydney Coenen, Ellie Coenen, Kaitlyn Coniglio (Christopher), and Samantha Stieber (Theodore). She was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Millie Brawner, Tillie Brawner, and Camden Coniglio.

Sis was known for her intellect, independence, and dedication to both her professional and personal pursuits. She had a wide range of interests, including a lifelong love of astronomy, geology, and golf. Whether she was exploring the night sky, studying the layers of the earth, or enjoying a well-played round of golf, Sis approached life with wonder and enthusiasm.

She was a committed supporter of community institutions, especially in Ketchikan, Alaska, where she maintained close ties over many years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: St. John's Episcopal Church, Ketchikan, AK, The Ketchikan Library Board, Ketchikan, AK, The Ketchikan Historical Society, Ketchikan, AK.

Sis's strength of character, generosity of spirit, and devotion to learning and service will be remembered by all who knew her. Her legacy continues through the many lives she influenced-as a teacher, mentor, mother, and friend.

Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia, MN. 952-442-2121 www.johnsonfh.com.