Frederick Thomas Coyle, aged 80, died peacefully at home in Victoria, BC on March 29, 2011. Fred was born on June 8th, 1930 in Charlottetown, PEI to Fred A. and Dorothy (Hogan) Coyle. Fred grew up in Charlottetown with his sisters, Frances, Barbara and Elizabeth and his brother, Leo. He was predeceased by his parents; siblings, (Leo and Frances) and his first wife, Joanne Marilyn (Bovard). Fred is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Monique (Poirier). Fred is also survived by his three children from his first marriage, Michael Coyle (Susan), Susan Plummer (Gordon), and Cynthia Coyle. Fred’s grandchildren are Carolyn Plummer (Lise), Lauren (Plummer) Wiley (Tim), Megan Plummer, and Conor Coyle. Fred attended Queen Square School in Charlottetown and went on to graduate from St. Dunstan’s University with his BA in 1952. He began his career at Maritime Central Airways in Goose Bay. Fred went on to complete his BCOMM. at St. Mary’s University in Halifax while raising a young family and working full time at Trans Canada Airlines (Air Canada). He transferred to Montreal in 1962 and after 37 years retired in 1991 as the Senior Director of Purchasing for Air Canada. Fred maintained a keen interest in aviation and was instrumental in the compilation of the history of Maritime Central Airways and the recognition of others in the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame. Fred’s retirement was spent in the City of Victoria where he and Monique enjoyed golfing at The Royal Colwood with their many friends. Fred also enjoyed his twice-weekly tennis matches with a regular group he helped organize. They played together for more than 20 years. He was happy to report that he won his very last mixed doubles set in February (6 – love) playing “ way over his head”. He likened his play that day to a light bulb burning ever so brightly just before it goes out. While living in Victoria, Fred supported the community with his volunteer contribution to the Commonwealth Games as the venue coordinator for cycling events. He was also the Race Director for the first International Triathlon in 2001. For twelve years Fred led an annual Christmas charitable fundraiser for the James Bay Community School. This work was very close to his heart. Until six weeks before his untimely illness, Fred was playing tennis, looking forward to his trip to PEI in July, visits with his children, grandchildren and to the birth of his first great grandchild. He will be greatly missed by all. Thank you to Victoria Hospice – QRT for their compassion and care during Fred’s illness.
A Celebration of His Life will be held at Fred’s great grandfather’s home (MP Hogan) in Charlottetown, mid-summer. The family requests donations to Victoria Hospice in lieu of flowers. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com.
31 Responses
My sincere condolences to you on your recent loss. I was both pleased and privileged to have made Fred’s acquaintance, and enjoyed our continuing communications via e-mails when he returned to Victoria. I was very sorry to hear of his passing.
Monique; so sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. Very much enjoyed his presence when he was Assistant Secretary to the corporation. Loved to hear his plans and strategies for improving his and your golf games. It was so much fun to listen to someone who had such an enthusiasm for self improvement. Although we have not been in touch since you both retired, I’m pleased to see that you both had such fulfilling lives since AC. Please accept my most sincere condolences.
Monique and all Fred’s Family;
Please believe your grief is shared. Knowing Fred was one of the highlights of my time at Air Canada. He was a gentleman, with honesty, integrity and loyalty. In difficult times (and there were some), he was a wealth of sage advice and continuous support. In many instances his counsel was overwhelmingly accurate and provided an way to achieve benefits in our endeavours. I was sorry when he retired, because his companionship was constant, I am vastly more sorrowful now. Please believe that he was far greater than his shadow, and a tribute to all with whom he came in contact.
Monique, Michael and to all of the Coyle Family, I was so overwhelmed when I heard the news of Fred’s passing. He was a remarkable man – an man of honor, integrity and class. I will always remember our days at Air Canada, and on the golf course.
My deepest sympathy,
Diane Drury
We will all miss Fred. He and I kept in close touch over the years by email and his visits to PEI. My condolences to Monique and to Fred’s
family.
My sincere condolences to all the family. I am sorry for your loss.
Gordon e-mailed this morning with the sad news of your dad’s death.
Our hearts are heavy as we remember Fred with fondness. He was such a distinguished gentlemen and he was always so interested in our lives when we met. Sarah McLaughlin’s song “I will remember you” was playing as I started the car this morning and I couldn’t help but think that Fred’s spirit was here in Fredericton for a short time, back for a quick visit. Our deepest sympathies to all of you.
Gisele, Bob, Anne-Marie, John and David.
Sue and Gordon – We are sending much love. It is a tough time but I know you will all be together sharing many happy memories and having lots of laughs. I was so delighted to see your dad again at Lauren’t wedding. He was a wonderful man and so very proud of you all. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love – Douglas, Michael, Ian, Andrew and Charlotte
Hello Cynthia,
Sorry to hear about your Dad. I often think about you and wonder how you are doing…. It seems like only yesterday that we had that little young peoples group… but at the same time, it seems so long ago. Hope you are doing OK. It is hard to loose a parent, as you already know, but take it a day at a time – a minute if you have to – and time helps heal the empty feeling…. He will be watching and guiding you from above now. Again my condolences…
Amy Doyle – Charlottetown PEI
I am moved with emotions that are foriegn to me. The few days I was able to spend with you last weekend has crystalized for me the fact that I am part of two very special families.
Granddad displayed temendous courage in his final days made much easier knowing he was surrounded with love and respect.
The commitment to your father in his final days is a testiment to the connection and history of a family not lost, but on hold. Waiting for the opportunity to reconnect and remember, a time hidden but not forgotten.
I am sad but proud at the same time. Your father’s legacy lives on in the strength of character and integrity of his children and grandchildren.
With respect, Gordon