COATES, IRENE - Irene Joan Coates, 87, from Halifax formerly of Fredericton, NB., passed away Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at QEII Health Sciences Center, Halifax Infirmary. Born in England Joan emigrated to Canada as a war bride landing at Pier 21 in 1946. Joan was predeceased by her parents the late Harry and Irene Collins as well as the love of her life her husband Reg. She is survived by a brother Bill (Colette) from England, three sons, Mason (Ann), Stephen (Sandy) and Phil (Cathy); daughter, Shirley as well as 11 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Joan led a full and busy life from the day she arrived in Canada and set a high standard for all her children and their children. She was not only a devoted wife and mother she took time to be active in the community through her involvement in the Girl Guide movement (a leader and moving up to a Commissioner), her leadership role in the Overseas Wives Club from producing, directing and starring role in many stage productions, and taking a group of war brides on the road to bring cheer to many people singing songs that were very popular during the war. How she ever found time to fit in her job at the Canadian Red Cross is still a mystery to us all. There are many adjectives that apply to Joan but the one that best describes her is she was a Lady in the truest sense of the word.
A celebration of life service will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday April 13, 2012 at Atlantic Funeral Home, 6552 Bayers Rd., Halifax. Interment will follow in Oakridge Memory Gardens, Lower Sackville. Donations in Joan's memory may be made to a charity of choice. On-line condolences may be sent by visiting: www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com