Born North Ferriby 1876. Son of Sarah Ashby (formerly Coggan), of North Ferriby, Yorks, and the late William Coggan; A Professional Soldier. Married on 13th July 1907, in Leeds. Husband of Ada (Padley) Coggan, of 2, Chapel St., Headingley, Leeds and 576 Hessle Road, Hull. An army pensioner, formerly (Sergeant Major) Bombay, Baroda and Central India Railway Volunteers (1902-1913); also of the East Yorkshire Regiment (1894-1900). He re-enlisted at Bramshott, Aldershot, on the 2nd September 1914, aged 39. He was described, as 5 foot 7 inches tall, 168lbs weight, 38 inch chest, a “very good” physical development and “exemplary” character. He specifically requested to join the 13th Royal Scot Fusiliers. Appointed Company Sergeant Major, on 17th April 1915. He was killed in action, at Loos, on 27th September 1915, aged 39. Shot through the head while rallying men forward to his captured trench. He had served 81 days at the front. He left a widow and three sons at 576, Hessle Road, Hull. His death and address were reported in the Hull Times, on the 23rd October 1915, with his photograph. His widow moved to 11, Granby Place, Headingley, Leeds (war Pension records)
