Murray Coates
Obituary
Murray Coates passed away on April 29, 2026, in Morris, Manitoba, at the age of 85. He was born on August 20, 1940, in Darlingford, Manitoba. Murray lived a life marked by deep Christian faith, kindness, and a steady devotion to those he loved. He will be remembered with great affection by all who knew him.
Murray was a man of intelligence and wisdom, which he shared generously. He dedicated his career to teaching high school science, where he inspired generations of students with his patience, clarity, and ability to make complex subjects understandable and engaging through his quirky sense of humour. He believed education was a true calling and approached it with dedication and purpose. Many benefited not only from his knowledge, but also from the encouragement and example he provided.
He gave himself willingly, guided by values of honesty, hard work, and compassion. Murray believed in taking time to enjoy life, to share laughter, and to be present with others. He had a gift for conversation and valued listening, making those around him feel heard and appreciated. Children held a special place in his heart, and he brought warmth and thoughtfulness to all his relationships. His presence was steady and reassuring, and his memory will remain a blessing.
Murray found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed camping, music, watching old television shows and cartoons, and learning how things worked. His curiosity and appreciation for both discovery and rest were a quiet but constant part of who he was.
Family was central to Murray’s life. He is lovingly remembered by his beloved wife of 63 years, Gwen; his children, John (Leah), Mark (Colleen), Garth, Lynda and sister Terry (Erich Del Monte); his 10 grandchildren (Xanthia, Rachel, Jaquelyne, Sherry, Adam, Alyssa, Kimberly, Carolyn, Reginald, and Samantha); 13 great-grandchildren (Danielle, Brook, Bridgette, Hollie, Chelsea, Ryder, Hunter, Stormy, Rebecca, Ethan, Achilles, Jayden, and Madeline); and 3 great-great-grandchildren (Beau, Wells, and C.J.). He will also be deeply missed by his many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was predeceased by his daughter-in-law Shannon St. Clair; granddaughter Cassie Woodhouse; sister Trudy Nash; and his parents John and Beatrice Coates, all of whom he missed deeply. He was especially saddened by the loss of his daughter, Kathy Reimer.
Those who knew Murray will remember him as a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and thoughtful wisdom. His legacy is not measured only in years, but in the lives he touched and the example he set.
As his family grieves his passing, they give thanks for his long and meaningful life. We trust that he now rests in the peace of Christ, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him. His memory will remain cherished, and his influence will continue through the family he loved, the students he taught, and the many lives he enriched.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1 p.m. at St. Maurice Roman Catholic Church, 253 Main Street, Morris, Manitoba, with reception to follow.
