Bruce Leslie Coates

Bruce Leslie Coates Bruce Coates was born on March 7, 1926, and passed away peacefully with his family by his side on May 21, 2017. Bruce is survived by his wife Verna(65 years married) sons Joseph (Cathy), David (Elena), grandchildren Justin, Sarah, Sean, 3 great grandchildren, sister Maralyn, and many extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents Redvers and Blanche, and sister Jean. Bruce was born and grew up on the family farm at Star City Sk. He attended Oriole school, followed by Arpsville school. He farmed with his parents growing prize winning barley crops. The Star City Barley Kings senior hockey team were well known with Bruce playing a solid defence, and his Dad behind the bench. He also curled competitively in those years. Bruce and Verna Maynes of Tisdale were married in 1951. Trading farming for the oil patch, Bruce held positions with Imperial Oil, and with Saskatchewan Energy and Mines in Estevan and Regina. During his working years, Bruce enjoyed golfing and fishing, and most days in section 7 at Taylor Field. Cottages on the QuAppelle lakes and in northern Saskatchewan seemed to create an appetite for bigger water. He talked of sailing the seven seas, and he and Verna did just that. Retiring to Vancouver Island, Bruce and and Verna enjoyed twenty-six golden years with the Pacific Ocean right out their front window. They made many new friends, and thoroughly enjoyed days spent on the golf course, or working in their yard. Bruce was very particular about landscaping and took great pride in his roses. Their beautiful island home was enjoyed by many friends. Bruce described retirement as a permanent vacation. Never forgetting his roots, Bruce and Verna returned to Regina in 2017, residing at College Park, reuniting with many friends. Music was a very big part of Bruce's life. He loved to sing and dance. He was a strong bass in many church choirs, the WaWa Chanters, and the Victoria Men's Choir. He was past Master of the Masonic Lodge, a member of the WaWa Shrine, and of the Order of the Eastern Star. Bruce will be remembered in the hearts of his family and friends as a kind, compassionate man. He will be missed.

Arrangements under the direction of Victoria Avenue Funeral Home and Cremation, Regina, SK.