Frederick Thomas Coyle, aged 80, died peacefully at home in Victoria, B.C., on March 29, 2011.
Fred was born on June 8, 1930 in Charlottetown, P.E.I., 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 co-ordinator for cycling events. He was also the Race Director for the first International Triathlon in 2001.
For 12 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 P.E.I. 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 (M.P. Hogan) in Charlottetown, midsummer. The family requests donations to Victoria Hospice in lieu of flowers.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com. McCall’s of Victoria, B.C., (1-800-870-4210).

Condolences