Charles "Charlie" Coleman
Passed in: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Passed on: March 1st, 2019
It is with great sadness that the Coleman family announces the passing of Charles (Charlie) Coleman at the age of 93 at Veteran’s Memorial Hospital in Halifax on March 1st. A long-time resident of Sydney, he and his wife Edith moved to Halifax in 2010.
“Grunk”, as he was affectionately known by his family, will be greatly missed by his children, Charlie (Kathy) Coleman, Fran (Lloyd) Foster, Doug (Susan) Coleman, Susan (Michael) Sampson, Kathleen Coleman, Halifax, Rick Coleman, Sydney; daughter-in-law, Janet Campbell, Waverley; seventeen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Charlie was predeceased by his wife, Edith (Edee) Coleman; his son, Paul; parents, Agnes and John; brothers, James, John (Jack), Peter, George, and sisters, Sister St. Catherine of Camel C.N.D. (Catherine), Mary, Rosella (Rosie), and Elizabeth (Colie).
Charlie was a WWII veteran serving in the Air Force from 1943-1945. He spent most of his adult life working at London Life in Sydney selling insurance, serving families in the Whitney Pier and Ashby areas, where he established many long-term relationships. Charlie was a long-time member of Immaculate Heart Parish, Mira Road. He was kind and friendly and showed genuine interest in other people’s lives. We fondly remember how he seemed to know just about everyone when we accompanied him on trips to the Co-op or the Mayflower Mall. Charlie was a long-time member of Lingan Golf and Country Club where he achieved four hole in ones. Throughout his life, Charlie was also an avid sports fan who loved to watch a variety of sports, often offering coaching advice from his armchair.
Our Dad was first and foremost a family man. He was a very devoted and a true partner to Edee in raising seven children. His support during her long journey with Alzheimer Disease was a testament to his devotion to her. He was a caring father and spending time with his children was one of his greatest pleasures. We have wonderful memories of special times together in our home on George Street, time spent in Boisdale and in Ingonish where he was always the first in the ocean and best at riding the waves. As children we appreciated his efforts in the kitchen, making us believe fried bologna and potatoes “aka Charlie’s Special” was a delicacy and we still try to duplicate his perfectly fried eggs. We know that Dad was particularly proud of his many grandchildren following their journey in life closely, taking much joy in their successes and giving input on everything from prom dresses to hair cuts. In return Grunk held a most special place in their hearts.
We wish to thank all those who helped to look after our Dad later in his life, first at Parkland Clayton Park and more recently on 6E of the Veterans Memorial Hospital. We truly appreciate your compassionate care and each act of kindness you showed to our father and to our family. We were fortunate to get to know many of you and you hold a special place in our hearts.
A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, March 15th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict’s Church, 4 Radcliffe Dr., Halifax. All are welcome to join afterwards for a gathering at his daughter’s home.
Donations to a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.coleharbourfuneral.com.
