Dorene Elizabeth Catherine Coates

Dorene Elizabeth Catherine Coates of Antigo, passed away on November 11, 2026 surrounded by her family, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital at the age of 70.

Dorene was born on September 27, 1956 in Chicago to the late Paul and Dorothy (Wilkowski) Fitak.

She worked as a restaurant banquet manager at the Holiday Inn in New Mexico for many years.

Dorene was a kind and caring person with a wonderful sense of humor and a heart for helping others. She was always looking for a way to connect with people and was especially thoughtful during the Christmas season. She treasured her many friendships she formed throughout her life, especially the close bonds she maintained with friends in New Mexico and Colorado. She loved her group of girls “The Beauties”. She had an amazing soul and a gift for making others feel loved. Above all, she cherished her family and could always be counted on to be there for those she loved. She lived her faith through the kindness and compassion she showed others.

Dorene is survived by children Jason Coates of Pickerel, Tim “Baby Bear” Coates of Fountain, CO, and Mindy “Minnie” (Garry) Hintz of Pickerel, her boyfriend Howard “Howie” Schultz, siblings Jerry (Kelly) Fitak, Paul (Mary) Fitak, Sandy (Bobby) Lefager, Sue Schoenwetler, brother-in-law Dave Rogers, and sister-in-law Delores Fitak, honorary sons Willy and Johnny Hudson, honorary son and caregiver Dale DeBroux, honorary grandson Dylan Schumann, her dear best friend Debbie (John) Bozzi of over 50 years, beloved cat Talluah, and fur baby grandson Twix.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her former spouse and father of her children Tom Coates, brother Chuck Fitak sister-in-law Nancy Rogers, and nephew Paul Rogers.

In accordance with Dorene’s wishes, no services will be held at this time.