Obituary of Gordon Frederick Coates

October 14, 1925 – Lethbridge, Alberta

April 21, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

With sadness and regret the family of Gordon F. Coates announces his peaceful passing on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at AgeCare Midnapore in Calgary, AB, at the age of 98 years. He was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Gordon was born in Lethbridge, AB, on October 14, 1925, to Frederick and Faye Coates and lived throughout his early years in Milk River, AB. He attended and graduated from the University of Alberta in 1948, with a degree in Civil Engineering. Over the decades as a PEng., his career took him worldwide including much of Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia while working on a wide range of projects including bridges, hydro dams, railroads, roads, mines, and general heavy construction contracts. Following his retirement, he became immersed in managerial tasks as part of the 1988 Calgary Olympic Committee, which he later described as a glorious experience. He also played a role with Canada 125, the University of Calgary Senate, was always helpful to others, and quick to lend a hand or a tool whenever asked. He was also a proud member of the Zetland Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Right and the Royal Order.

Over nearly a century, he never stopped learning as the world changed around him. He kept himself current and always enjoyed fixing, making, and building things in his spare time for his family, friends, and neighbours. He embraced technology with enthusiasm, he loved sailing, golfing, picnics, and other activities he shared with others.

Gordon was widowed twice. He married Lois Hindley in June 1951 and together they had three children, Fred, David, and Margie. After living in several locations dictated by his work, they settled into their home in Calgary in the early 50s and in 1965 purchased a property just south of Bragg Creek, AB. The family enjoyed many, many happy years there. Lois predeceased Gordon in 1995.

Through his volunteer work with the U of C Senate, he was introduced to Hazel MacPherson whom he married in 1996. She also had three children and grandchildren, so they were kept quite busy, spending time with family and friends, travelling, golfing, and enjoying the cabin in Bragg Creek. Hazel passed in 2020.

He was also predeceased by his parents, Fred (1939) and Faye (1962); cousin Daryl Smith (1993), his sister Margaret Lundgren (2017), and nephew Robert Lundgren (2015).

Gordon is survived by his two sons, David and Fred; daughter Margie, his four grandchildren, Emily (Jeff), Sarah (Shaun), Gabrielle and Ethan; as well as his two great-grandsons, Cohen and Finn.

He accomplished much throughout his life professionally and personally. Known for his quick smile, “thumbs up” and a greeting saved for his favourite people, “You’re a sight for sore eyes”, he will be missed by many who knew and loved him.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Wentworth Manor and AgeCare Midnapore for their care and attention provided to Dad along this journey.

A Celebration of Gordon’s Life will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Glencoe Club (636 29 Ave SW, Calgary, AB).

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Gordon’s family here.

In living memory of Gordon F. Coates, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.