It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of David Coates, age 74, on Sunday, August 27, 2017, in Victoria, BC, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. David was born on March 15, 1943, and raised in Brandon, Manitoba. He is predeceased by his parents Jack Coates and Gladys Coates.
Left to cherish his many memories are his loving wife of 24 years Peggy Coates; his children Michelle Coates (Terry), Leanne Kilb, Debbie Yvonne, and Ken Yvonne (Paula); his grandchildren Khloe, Christopher, Brianne, Alicia and Alex; his brother Fred (Jan); his sister Marion and many nieces, nephews and friends.
David started his career with Canadian Pacific Railway in 1966. Throughout his career, he worked in Manitoba and British Colombia before settling in Victoria in 1990, working as a conductor on the VIA Rail day liner, which traveled between Victoria and Courtney. David loved his job so much and enjoyed the many guests on the train that it took him 3 separate times before he finally retired.
After retiring, David and Peggy enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends. David also volunteered countless hours at the Esquimalt Eagles Club, Silver Threads, Rainbow Soup Kitchen, and various other places whenever asked.
David cherished his many fishing trips with friends, rounds of golf and daily walks, which usually included finding an old or new friend to talk to along the way.
David was a kind and caring person, who has touched the lives of many and will forever be in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Esquimalt Eagles Club, 891 Esquimalt Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 3M5 on Saturday, October 14th, 2017 from 1 to 5 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency in David’s name.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
17 Responses
I was so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. he was a wonderful man. When I rode the train many years ago he was so kind. He would do anything for people without hesitation. He will be missed by all who were lucky to know him. My thoughts go out to Peggy and the family. Rest in peace.
Our deepest sympathy to Peggy and family. It was shocking news as we remembered the last time we had lunch before we started our summer camping up-island. Since we all used to live in Ladysmith, Dave would bring back news whenever he and Peggy went up-island. He was such a nice man and we are honoured to have known him.
We are so saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. A dear friend, always there to be of help. A good man, who will surely be missed by many. Dave will be held in our hearts, remembered, as a true friend, one super dude.
Peggy, we send our love, and of course, you know we are here for you if we can be of any assistance.
So sorry for your loss Peggy and all of Dave’s family. Had the pleasure of meeting him only once but knew he was a wonderful man and will be sadly missed.
Dave was the kindest man. I have such fond memories of visiting him and Peggy with Leanne as teenagers. I am so sorry for your loss. Much love. Michelle Daubney-Liedl
Condolences to Peggy, Debbie, Christopher and family. Dave definitely left a wonderful impression with those who knew him. He will be greatly missed. ❤️
Peggy, Michelle, Leanne and families.
Heartfelt sympathy for your loss. We will treasure our memories of Dave, our friend and brother-in-law.
I didn’t know your dad well but enjoyed his little visits when he would stop by to see you at our office Dominion Lending and he would always have time to chat….a very nice man he was for sure and I know you will miss him dearly.❤️
So sorry for your loss Debbie …hugs xo
My condolences to my dear friend Peggy, her family, and Daves family. He will be dearly missed. I remember the first time I met Dave with his train buddies. We all had lots of fun and laughs. I am sure Dave and Bob are running the train up there. Rest in peace Dave.