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
Monique, Michael, Susan and Cynthia,
So very sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and father. Although it has been many years I can still see you all on Rockwood Dr. Sending you all much love at this difficult time from all the Reid family.
Dear Monique,
It has been many long years that we have not been in contact with each other, but I still remember the wonderful times we spent together at work. I remember also coming to your home to share some wonderful meals with you and Fred and it saddens me terribly to hear that you have lost him. I know how very close the two of you were and I can only imagine how devastated you must feel.
Denis and I wish to extend our deepest sympathies. Please know that our hearts are with you at this terrible time. Only time is a healer.
Love Marge
Monique on pense à toi !Nous espérons avoir de tes nouvelles bientôt,nous ignorions que Fred était malade,on espère qu’il n’ait pas souffert,c’était vraiment quelqu’un que l’on peut être fier d`avoir eu dans la famille..Nos condoléances et à bientôt. Pauline et ses enfants xxx…
Our deepest sympathies to Monique , Susan, Michael and Cynthia and their extended families. Fred will be missed by his entire `Halifax family` of Plummers..His kindness and friendship was felt by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time…Stephen and Jill and also on behalf of Art and Doreen Plummer.
Dear Monique,
I was shaken by the news of Fred’s passing. He was so much fun and had such great enthusiasm for life. For introducing me to Nikken and changing the course of the rest of my life, I am hugely indebted to him. He will never know the positive impact that decision has had, and will continue to have, on the lives of so many others.
Having worked through my own grief, I know the pain you are feeling. My heart goes out to you, and while it is almost impossible for you to believe at this moment, this pain will pass and only loving and tender memories will remain to sustain you in the years ahead.
In love and light
Elaine
Bonjour Monique,
C’est avec stupéfaction que nous avons appris le décès de Fred. Nous désirons t’offrir nos sympathies les plus sincères.Nous garderons de Fred le souvenir d’un homme de grande classe , sociable, ayant la joie de vivre et impliqué dans certaines causes lui tenant à coeur.
Hélène et Michel Poirier
Dear Cynthia, Susan, Michael and families,
You have been so much in our hearts and thoughts these past few weeks as you journeyed faithfully with your Dad. You lovingly gathered and rewove the fabric of your family story into something most precious and wondrous. He is surely in deep peace…
May each of you also be refreshed and nourished by the love and bond that is yours forever.
With our love and respect,
Harry, Cheryl and Allan O’Connor
My deepest condolences to Monique and family in the loss of Fred. He and I began our airline careers together in Goose Bay working for Maritime Central Airways in the early 50’s, and even though Fred had a tremendous career with Air Canada later, he always had a soft spot in his heart for M.C.A. The organization of the MCA reunion in Charlottetown in 1991 was a great example of how Fred could organize large groups of people. I had the good fortune to visit Monique and Fred at their beautiful home in Victoria in 2008 and was treated royally. He was a classy and great guy and wiil be missed by all his friends.
Wayne played tennis with Fred and the group many years. Fred will be sorely missed, as he was a great help in organization and a pleasure to play tennis with. Our condolences to Monique and family.
Wayne & Jean
Please accept our deepest condolences. It was a pleasure working with and knowing Fred.
Bob & Yvonne