Dr. Richard Coon is a third-generation veterinarian in Forest Grove, Oregon. Dr. Coon's grandfather, W. B. Coon, graduated in Veterinary Medicine from Ontario Veterinary College in 1912 and moved to Forest Grove where he started his practice. Dr. Coon's father, Elwyn W. Coon, graduated from Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, and joined him in 1932. Dr. Richard Coon received his veterinary medical degree from Colorado State University in 1960. From 1961 until 1963 Dr. Coon served in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps. He owned and operated the Forest Grove Veterinary Clinic, a mixed animal practice, until 2001.

Dr. Coon has been active in organized veterinary medicine for many years. He served as president of his local veterinary association and was a member of several committees of the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA). Dr. Coon was elected President of the OVMA in 1987 and was Oregon's delegate to Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) from 1989-1995. Dr. Coon was honored with Oregon's Meritorious Service Award in 2000. He served as an Alternate Delegate and Delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates and is currently representing District XI on the AVMA Executive Board, which includes Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Alaska.

Dr. Coon's community involvement includes Chamber of Commerce President, school board, church elder, and recipient of the Jaycees Distinguished Service Award.

Dr. Coon and his wife, Arlene, have two sons, a daughter, and four grandchildren. Mrs. Cook has been active in OVMA and AVMA Auxiliaries, serving as state president.