Rev. Calvin John Coates
March 1, 1931 to April 22, 2020
Obituary
It is with profound sadness we announce the peaceful passing of this wonderful man, who was deeply spiritual, loved life, his family and community. Predeceased by his wife Blanche (nee Mitchell), son Donald and his wife Rose, son -in-law Eric Noseworthy, his parents Thomas and Maud Coates and his 9 siblings. Left to mourn and celebrate his life are his children Elizabeth Williams (David), Jean Cross ( Randy), Reginald (Norma), Denise Littlejohn (Eugene), David (Shelley), Carol Keough (Mike); his grandchildren Wanda Weir-Oliver( Ron), Brian Vanderburg ( Anne Degryse ), Karen Cross, Darryl Cross (Krista), Sean Noseworthy (Amy), Natasha Burdeyney (Mike), Michael Coates. Kathryn Coates, Nathan Littlejohn, Kathleen Littlejohn, Nicholas Ridgley (Cheryl Pike), Suzanne Ridgley (Brandon Gosse), Gregory Coates; 12 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren, his twin sister Florence Vanderburg, sister-in-law Nellie Coates and a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Calvin was originally from Botwood, NL but spent the majority of his years in Lewisporte. He worked for Lewisporte Wholesalers Ltd. for 37 years and during that time he became ordained as an Anglican Priest. His love and devotion for the congregation of St Paul’s Anglican Church in Lewisporte was paramount. He served in many parishes across Newfoundland and fostered many relationships.
As the years passed, Dad and Mom spent more time in St John’s with family and eventually moved there permanently. For the past few years Dad made his home at Cambridge Estates in St John’s, where he developed many friendships and they became like family. He was very social and loved interacting with the residents and staff.
Our family would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Amanda Scott for the amazing care that she has given Dad. She was always available and her commitment to Dad’s care went above and beyond. We would also like to thank the staff at Cambridge Estates for the care, kindness, and friendship they provided to our Dad during his time there. You made it so easy for Dad to make Cambridge Estates his home.
To the Palliative Care team, we thank you for your care and support though this difficult time.
Due to Covid-19, a private service will be held and date for a memorial service will be announced later. In lieu of flowers donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Heart and Stroke Foundation will be gratefully accepted.
” Be not afraid I go before you always. Come follow Me and I shall give you rest ”
I first met Rev. Calvin when I was teaching at Gambo, 50+ years ago and had two of his daughters in class. Later, we met at Lewsiporte (1980 +) and became good friends, involved together in school board issues.. I always had a very deep respect for him. He was a good man. My condolences to his family.
I was very sorry to hear of Calvin’s passing..When my father retired, my folks,Arthur and Georgina Young moved to Lewisporte.They became very dear friends with Calvin. I met him on several occasions while visiting the folks and have many fond memories of our meetings.I thought he was a great man.I remember our last meeting. It was a number of years ago.I believe he was visiting family in St. John’s at the time. It was at the Field house at MUN.We had a walk and a yarn. He always left a lasting impression on me.
Please accept my condolences on the passing of your Father.
My heartfelt condolences to all the Coates family. Calvin was a long time Stuckless family friend. I happened to see him at the Miller Center several years ago. Since then I had the pleasure to visit with him and we both enjoyed these times together. Calvin had many a story to share of his life experiences and his pride for family members. He always asked about Lewisporte and how everyone was doing. This devoted, thoughtful, calming gentleman will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Sharing in your sorrow with love and friendship.
Elizabeth and all your families. So sorry to hear of your Dad ‘ s passing. Know that we are thinking of you and will keep you all in our prayers.. the Wattons, Peach,,Butlet, Cairns and Tippett families
Jean & Carol and all the Coats family , please accept our condolences on the passing of your dad. I hope your memories provide you some level of comfort. Bride & Reg Norman
Jean, Randy & family.
So sorry to learn of your fathers passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and we offer our condolences to the whole family.
To The Coats Family, Sorry for your loss, your dad was such a kind and gentle man, Always enjoyed talking to him .Be assured you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
I was so sorry to hear about your father’s passing. I know this is a very sad and difficult time for you and your family. You have my very deepest sympathy
Jean and Randy, we were sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Thinking if you all at this time. Fond memories of your years in Gambo when you were our neighbours.
Thinking of your family during your loss. Remembering many good times with Calvin and Blanche.
Lena and Ches Davis
Thinking of Jean and Liz.
Don and Janet Davis
Jean, Randy & family.
So sorry to learn of your fathers passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and we offer our condolences to the whole family.
To the family of Rev. Calvin Coates,
I am so sorry to hear of Rev. Coates’ passing. I have many good memories of him from your family’s time in Gambo.
My sincere condolences to the whole family.
Marguerite (Pond) Curtis
Please accept my sincere heartfelt sympathy at this difficult time. It was truly my pleasure to care for your dad over the past several years. He always brought a smile to my face and the faces of our staff. He was such a kind and gentle soul and his smile filled the room. He was the definition of selfless and he was ever so grateful for the smallest act of kindness. My heart is bigger for having known him, and he will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of his journey and allowing me to get to know your beautiful family. The attention and care you provided to him and his health is truly admirable. You were attentive to every detail, which made my job easy. He was surely blessed to be loved by you all. He will be deeply missed, but he will live on in our hearts forever.
Lucy and I are so sorry to hear of Calvin’s passing. Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
The greater the love, the harder the loss. I am so sorry this sad time has come. Sending love to the Littlejohns and family. ❤❤❤
Deepest sympathy to the Coates family during this difficult time.I remember your Dad well from when he worked at Lewisporte Wholesalers with my Dad for many years.He was a very caring and soft spoken gentleman that came through everytime you met him..
Katherine Manuel
I have many fond memories of Calvin. I remember meeting him as a boy and trips on the boat and then of course working with him at the wholesalers. Always a gentle chuckle even when it was busy day. Very nice man and a gentle soul. Our condolences to the family and friends.
Elizabeth, Jean, Reg, Denise, David and Carol and your families
Wendy and I offer our deep condolences for your loss. Our prayers are for each of you, scattered as you are, knowing that you, as you have done in the past, will find ways to support each other in this time of loss and also in your celebration of his life.
I cherished my friendship with your dad. Over the years, we not only shared in a common ministry (Calvin assisted me in all four of my Newfoundland Parishes) but we truly enjoyed spending time with each other. His greatest impact was seen in his ability and comfort level of just being. As he would often share with others, he celebrated how God continued to use his gifts throughout his entire life.
While he was always thankful that God chose to work through him, it was his family that he was most proud of. From the first time I was at your parent’s home in Trinity on through to his homes in Lewisporte, St. John’s and lastly at Cambridge Estates, one only had to look at the pictures of each of you scattered throughout his home (or room) to know just how precious each of you were in his eyes. He loved the time he spent with you and would quickly share the most recent news of how you each were doing.
I am blessed that I have shared in Calvin’s life. Our friendship has made me a better man and a better Priest.
Rest eternal grant unto him, O Lord and let light perpetual shine upon him.
Our hearts were saddened to hear of Rev. Calvin’s death – our love thoughts and prayers are with the family
Glenys and I wish to pass on our condolences to the family.. I know how sad you are. We are sad as well. Calvin was my mentor and a good good friend..we sheared many meals togeather. If I needed to talk something over or needed advice I would go down and see Calvin and Blanch..
We all have such good memories of Calvin here in Lewisporte.A gentle and loving person and faithful to his church.
Calvin you are finally Home. May you rest in peace and some day rise to glory.
Glenys and I wish to pass on our condolences to the family.. I know how sad you are. We are sad as well. Calvin was my mentor and a good good friend..we sheared many meals togeather. If I needed to talk something over or needed advice I would go down and see Calvin and Blanch..
We all have such good memories of Calvin here in Lewisporte.A gentle and loving person and faithful to his church.
Calvin you are finally Home. May you rest in peace and some day rise to glory.
Denise, Eugene & family: So sorry for the loss of your dad; it is hard enough any time to lose your dad but extremely hard right now. Know he is at peace and a much better place. Think of you so often. Take care and be safe.
Jean and family, Sorry to hear of your Dads passing.. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time
David, Shelley and Gregory, we are so very sorry for your lost . Hold the beautiful memories close to your heart. Thinking of you and sending love.
Jean and Randy
Sorry to hear about your father Jean
With my deepest sympathy on the passing of Calvin. I remember him most for his most gentle ways and love for others. May your loving memories and God’s never failing grace uphold you in your times of need. Prayers and blessings coming your way. +
What a beautiful, caring, and sincere gentleman we have lost. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy through his children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren. I know that he is safe in the arms of our Lord now, his reward for living a life of service to others and a life which epitomized the goodness and beauty that God meant for all of us. God Bless you, Rev Coates.
to Coates family our condolences . memory’s of Rev Calvin he was good person to all we will all ways remember him.
To the family of Rev. Calvin Coates. Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of your father. As a child growing up in Lewisporte, I got to know and admire him through his involvement and leadership within St. Paul’s Anglican Church. He was truly a wonderful man. You are in my thoughts at this time.
To Jean, Randy, Karen, Darryl and the rest of your families, please accept our sincere condolences. This is such a difficult time but know that you are surrounded with love and caring even if we cannot give you a real hug.
Graham & Frances Horwood
Elizabeth, Jean and the Coates Family, so sad to hear of Calvin’s passing. I have so many great memories of Calvin and his friendship with our family. Growing up in Lewisporte it seem that Calvin was more like our uncle rather than a friend. We were also so very grateful that Calvin was near when Mom and Dad passed away, he was certainly a tower of strength . I will alway remember his good nature and smile. He will be missed.
David, Shelley, Gregory and the Coates Family,
We are so sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing. Our sincere condolences to you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. God Bless.
Kevin, Madeline and the Legge Family
So sad to hear of you dad’s passing. I have very fond memories of him at St Paul’s. Such a kind and gentle man. Our family had great respect for him. A few years ago I saw him at St Mark’s in St John’s and was lucky in that we were having a luncheon at the church that day. We had lunch together. I will always remember his kind and comforting words.
To the family of the late Rev. Calvin Coates: I’m sure I am a stranger to you, but please accept my sincere thanking on the passing of a remarkable priiest… I was ordained to the Nonstipendiary ministry in the falll of 1975. The next summer we were camping at Notre Dame Park when I had a visit from Calvin. He told me he was interested in being ordained to this ministry and for over an hour we chatted about the ups and down of this ministry. I was then teaching at Fortune Collegiate and he was workiing ar Lewisporte wholesalers. . His greatest worry seemed to be how I did the two “jobs” at the same time. Anyway, when he left I felt that he was determined to see iit throogh and he did. I heard many good things about him later. May he rest in peace.
Jean and family my sincere condolences to all the family. So sorry for your loss. Know that you are in my thoughts as you face the difficult days ahead. Hold tight to your beautiful memories.
I am very sorry to hear of Mr. Coates passing. We remember him well from our growing up years at St. Paul’s in Lewisporte. I can’t remember a service of any kind when he and his family were not present and usually he was conducting services as the Lay Reader. He certainly kept the church going in those years. My condolences to Elizabeth and Jean, whom I remember, and the rest of his family.
Julie Rose Eveleigh
The Coates Family,
Our sincere condolences on Calvin’s passing. Having known Calvin and family all my life it’s like having lost a close family member. Continue to enjoy the great memories of Calvin.
Sending my sincere condolences Carol & Jean on the passing of your dad. Thinking of you both & all the family at this difficult time. Rest peacefully Rev Coates. ????
David and Family,
Condolences on the Passing of your family’s Patriarch. After reading through the quotes I feel like I missed out on knowing your Father, it looks like he was a wonderful person. I hope the happy memories of him shine through.
To the Coates families. We are deeply saddened to hear of your Dad’s passing.. Your Dad was able to make everyone feel as one family. His compassion and sincerity was certainly evident at the times of our need.
Elizabeth and family: Very sorry to read of your father’s death. He will always be with you.
Denise and Family, so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear father/grandfather. While I never met him, based on things I read from you and your niece Karen (Cross) he seemed like a wonderful, well loved family man. I am sure he will be missed greatly. Sending hugs and prayers to all of you.
My sincere condolences to Calvin’s family. My Dad, Hedley Powell ,worked with Calvin at Lewisporte Wholesalers. Dad always spoke highly of him. I too remember well this soft spoken, gentle,friendly man. I’m sure you know how blessed you all were to have such a Dad as he. You will forever carry treasured memories of him which will bring comfort, hope and smiles to your faces.
To the Coates family,
We are so sad to hear of Calvin’s passing. Such a sweet man, so easy to talk to and so caring.. Heaven has certainly gained an angel. Our deepest condolences to the family as you lay this special man to rest.
To The Coates Family.
Sorry to hear of Calvin’s passing, he was indeed a great person, a good friend. Be assured of our thoughts and prayers.
Bruce & Brenda Cole
Denise, and all the family,
My condolences. I remember your dad’s warm gentle smile, and softly spoken kind words. Always interested in inquiring about what one was up to, and how family members were. May your loving memories and faith carry you through this difficult time.
To the Coates’s family sorry to hear of dad’s passing sincere condolences to you all at this difficult time .
Our sympathy and condolences to the family as you mourn and celebrate Calvin’s life!With our Botwood roots he was practically a lifelong friend!He was a wonderful colleague during our ministry and Lewisporte!I applaud him for his part in insuring the birth of the Anglican Church here and for keeping it going in the early days!His commitment to ministry made him a wonderful priest,who demonstrated compassion, with a fine understanding of people’s hurts,In short here was a good man and a wonderful representative of his calling! God Bless!
Sorry to here the news and condolences to all the family
Met Calvin many years ago through work and always enjoyed his company. We done many lunches and had some great conversations. He was a great person with a tremendous personality. Always stopped to chat. Will miss you. God Bless.
Deniese and the Coates Family. Saddened to hear of your dad’s passing, our thoughts are with you at this sad time.We have many happy memories of time spent with your dad.
To the Coates Family: We were so sorry to hear about your dad’s passing; We have been friends with your family for many years and have spent many hours with both your mom and dad; the memories of those days will not be forgotten.. Calvin was such a mild-mannered, soft-spoken and kind=hearted man. Without a doubt, he touched many lives, ours included. May God surround each one of you with peace and comfort as you deal with your loss. We are sending our love and prayers your way.
The Coates Family – I am saddened to hear of your Dad’s passing. Humble, kind, soft spoken, considerate, and a true gentleman is only a glimpse into his personality. A friend to everyone without any judgement. I am so blessed to have worked with him at Lewisporte Wholesalers along with having him as rector at St.. Paul’s Church. In recent times, I had the opportunity to talk with him when I visited Cambridge Estates. Heaven has gained another angel. RIP my sweet man!!!
My sympathies to the family. Rev. Coates will always hold a special place in my heart. I was very honoured to have him come out of retirement to officiate my wedding 18years ago. May he rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers to all his family.
Amanda (Hoffe) Cormier
Sainte Marie, NB (Lewisporte)
To the family: so sorry to hear of Rev Calvin’s passing. He was a very kind and gentle man. Our deepest condolences.
Dear Jean, Randy & Coates Family, so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. May your great memories, along with the love & support of family & friends, bring you comfort at this difficult time. Hugs! Theresa & Dave
Although I never met Rev. Coates, he was spoken of so fondly by David and Elizabeth that I almost felt I knew him. Our hearts go out to you David, Shelley, Elizabeth, Randy, Jean and to the entire family. He left a legacy in you and in his work that will never die.
Our sincere condolences to the entire family. It was always a pleasure to spend a few minutes chatting with Calvin. He always made you feel as if you had his full attention and that your words mattered. I hope you all find comfort in the memories and wonderful legacy he has left behind as both a spirtual leader and patriarch.
My condolences to the family. There are people that come into your life that leave a lasting impression and he sure was one of them. Such a kind and gentle soul. You will be missed by all who knew you. Rest peacefully Rev Coates.
My condolences to all the family. Rev Calvin was a wonderful kind and caring gentleman. Loved his smile and kind words . My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
God Bless
Judy Stephenson
Tony and I had the great privilege of meeting this wonderful man when our daughter started dating his grandson Sean and then married him. He performed their wedding ceremony and from then on I was so captivated by his loving , caring personality! Over the past few years we’ve had many opportunities to interact with him and have quiet chats. With the last time being March 1 of this year when he so sweetly baptized our granddaughter Danielle , Amy and Sean’s daughter. We will miss him .We would like to tell all of the family that you are in our hearts and our prayers and sending virtual hugs ????. As soon as we can we will make the hugs for real!
Elizabeth and all the family,………my sincere condolences on the passing of your father. May your memories sustain you during these difficult days.
Carole, Mike and family.
We had the great pleasure of being Mike and Carol’;s neighbors in Topsail for nearly 15 years. . We are so saddened to hear of your dad’s passing. He was a very gentle, sweet man. We loved our little get togethers and enjoyed his company. We know this is a very difficult time but your wonderful memories will help you through this sad and difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love .
Blaine, Hazel Kelly
To Jean. Randy and families:
Sincere condolences on the passing of your father. Calvin was certainly a wonderful man and a pleasure to have a chat with.. Really going to miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Rest in peace Rev. Coates.
Melvin and |Lorna Crewe
My deepest sympathy to you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. He was such a lovely gentleman.
So sorry to hear of Calvin’s passing. We spent alot of time together in Lewisporte, creating lots of wonderful memories. Condolences from Marina Reid and family in Grand Falls-Windsor.
Calvin was the most gentle sweet man and a part of my life growing up in Lewisporte with the Anglican Church – sending much love and condolences to the whole family.
Patty Jacobs Walsh
To the Coates family , I am so deeply sorry and saddened by Calvin’s passing he was a dear friend of our family and co-officiated at my wedding and took part in my daughters wedding just four and a half years ago and was also my brothers Godfather he was a very gentle and genuine soul a well respected man . Condolences to you all .
So sorry to hear of Calvin’s passing. He was such a kind and gentle man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time.
To The Family: My family and I have very special memories of Rev. Coates. Wherever he met you he always took the time for a chat and to inquire about family. He was a very well liked and highly respected man in our community. Your special memories will be a comfort in the days to come. Rest in peace Rev. Coates.
Carol, Jean , Wanda and family…. I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of your dad and grandfather, thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very sad and difficult tiime.
Our sincere condolences to the family. Calvin was a wonderfully respected and gentle man. We had many conversations during his time with Lewisporte Wholesalers Ltd in Lewisporte. He was always so respectful and professional and caring to everyone. Cherish your wonderful memories.
Patrick & Florence White
It is with heavy hearts we say goodbye to a fine gentleman and wonderful friend ..We will miss our great visits and fun games of cards .Mr. Coates you fought a valiant battle .Heaven has gained another Angel .Rest in Peace my Friend ..May you all find comfort in your beautiful memories
Denise, Eugene, Kathleen and Nathan:
My sincere condolences to you on the passing of your father, father-in-law and grandfather. His legacy will continue in the fine qualities that all of you have and share with others.
Our deepest condolences to the family of this great man. Calvin baptized Wade as well as all three of our children and he co-officiated at our wedding service.. Rev. Coates (Calvin as he was known to us) shared in most all of our momentous life events. We consider him to be the epitome of a truly spiritual person who shared his gifts freely with others. Rest In Peace our good friend.
To the Coates family
We are so saddened to hear of Rev Coates passing . Such a pleasure to have known him .
Sending our deepest condolences!
Thinking of you all at this difficult time.
Kim and John Oake and family
To the Coates family I remember Calvin and his family living next to us on Premier Drive, Lewisporte.Please accept our sincere condolences to all the family
To the Coates family: I remember Calvin from the first day him and Blanch moved to Lewisporte, he immediately became involved with the Anglican Church, both as lay reader and youth leader, he also became part of our family and remember his many visits to our house.
He will be missed, please accept our sincere condolences to all the family. RIP Calvin with your lovely wife Blanch and son Donald…
To the Coates family,
Well where do I begin. I had the utmost pleasure of knowing this man for the past couple of years from my previous workplace, Calvins home. What joy, pleasure and happiness he brought into my life while spending time with him. Calvin always took everything as it was. Nothing was too big for him to handle and he handled it with such grace. You left us on my birthday, which I will always remember you each and every year. Rest In Peace and I know you will be watching over us all.
To all of Calvin’s family we offer our most sincere condolences. Calvin was always such a pleasure to be around. He will live on in the hearts of many, especially you. his family, whom he loved so dearly. May sweet memories of him comfort you at this difficult time in your lives. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers in the days to come. Rest In Peace, Calvin.
Jean and family – Our sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad. My the memories you share comfort the family at this difficult time.
George & Carolyn Cull