After 32 years with Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), Coke Coakley, former manager of Environmental Services, may have retired from his career, but he certainly hasn't slowed down. Whether he's cycling for a cause, protecting local beaches, honoring military heroes or spending time with family, Coke continues to make a meaningful difference.

For more than 25 years, Coke has dedicated his time to raising awareness for multiple sclerosis (MS) by supporting Bike MS, a cause that holds deep personal meaning to him. His involvement began in honor of his mentor, Dan Quinn, a beloved high school teacher and community leader, who passed away from MS in the mid-1980s.

"I knew I had to do something to honor him," Coke said.

As an avid cyclist who commuted to the Juno Beach office by bike for many years, his support of Bike MS was a natural fit. Over the years, Coke served as the corporate NextEra Energy Bike MS team captain, helping raise more than $100,000 for MS research, education and awareness.

Another cause close to Coke's heart is the Rohna Survivors Memorial Association, which preserves the story of the HMT Rohna disaster, the largest loss of life at sea in U.S. military history. His father, U.S. Army Major Louis Coakley, survived the 1943 attack, helping save fellow soldiers despite suffering severe injuries. Because the tragedy remained classified until 1993, many survivors and families lived in silence for decades. Through the association, Coke has helped share their untold stories and support fellow families. This October, his father's service and sacrifice will be honored with a full military burial at Arlington National Cemetery.

Closer to home, Coke has served on the Town of Jupiter Beach Committee for more than 25 years. The committee works to preserve and protect one of South Florida's most treasured natural resources, helping ensure Jupiter's beaches remain clean, safe and beautiful for generations to come.

When he's not supporting causes he cares about, he enjoys spending time with his grandson, Jack, wearing fun inflatable costumes while traveling with his wife Bonnie, attending baseball games, cycling, working out at the Juno Beach gym and swimming long distances.

“I just booked our next big adventure for 2027, Newfoundland. I’m ready to swim with whales, puffins and icebergs,” Coke said.

Even after undergoing a second hip replacement, Coke continues to stay active and embrace new adventures.

_{*Photo: Retiree Coke Coakley smiling on a boat with scenic blue water and mountain landscape in the background.}