Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector Ensen Mason is pleased to present another riveting story of the many great county residents that have served in his position since 1853.

Louis Irus Coy was born in Will County, Illinois on May 8, 1859. His family later moved to Iowa, where he completed his education and started a business career as an assistant cashier and bookkeeper at a local bank.

After moving to Highland, California, he lived there for 20 years, during which he farmed and cultivated oranges, selling them locally. In 1898, he was elected as the county tax collector, serving for three terms until 1908. His extensive banking experience in Iowa made him a skilled accountant, preparing him for the position at the Tax Collector’s office.

On February 1, 1882, he married Miss Jennie McFarland, and they had four children: Ada, Winifred, Samuel and Milton. Sadly, Coy passed away at the age of 48 following an automobile accident. Initially, his family believed that he died without a will and asked for his brother to handle the administration of his estate. However, it was later discovered that he had written a will but destroyed it.

He died on March 15, 1908, and is buried in Mt. View Cemetery in San Bernardino. 


Additional County Update News – May 2, 2024