Roy Cecil Coleman passed away at Castleview Care Centre in Castlegar, BC, Tuesday, November 22, 2011, at the age of 84. His passing was peaceful, with family by his side. Roy was an only child, born to Henry and Verda Coleman March 5, 1927, in Nelson. He spent his childhood at Deer Park, and his early adulthood at Syringa Creek, where he ran a general store, a boarding house, and a rental business. In 1966, Roy, his wife Eileen, and their children moved to Castlegar, where he worked as a safety boat man during the construction of the Kinnaird bridge. That same year he founded Coleman Excavating Ltd., and was joined by his two eldest sons in operating the business.
Roy loved to travel in his RV and on cruise ships.
He is survived by his children: Craig (Gaye) Coleman, Lorne (Bev) Coleman, Cheryl (Bill) Babakaiff, Keith (Mira) Coleman, Karla (Dave) Melsted, 12 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. Roy was predeceased by his wife Eileen and both of his parents.
A funeral service was held on November 26, 2011, at the Castlegar United Church with Reverend Ann Pollock officiating. Sarah Greenwood of the Castlegar Funeral Chapel was entrusted with arrangements.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Merritt and the staff of Castleview for their kindness and care.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Roy’s memory may be made to the Castlegar Hospice Society, #18 - 709 10th Street, Castlegar, 250-304-1266.