January 3, 1937 - May 17, 2024
In loving memory ~
John Coady passed away peacefully in Parksville on May 17, 2024, at the age of 87.
Born in Glen Innes, New South Wales, Australia, John's life was marked by family, travel, and dedication to his work.
As a young man in Australia, John enjoyed playing the bagpipes in a local pipe band and took part in many parades, social events, and Highland Games in and out of state.
In his early 20s, John's love of travel took him to England on a P&O liner, with stops in places like Singapore, India, and Ceylon before passing through the Suez Canal to London. With England as his base, he explored the diverse landscapes and cultures of Europe.
Returning to Australia, John completed his degree at the University of New South Wales, then returned to London for a Masters and PhD in Nuclear Chemistry at Imperial College. During this time, he met his future wife, Gillian, whom he married in 1967.
A job offer at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment in Pinawa, Manitoba, brought John and Gill to Canada in 1968. They welcomed their sons, Sean in 1969, and Duncan in 1971, and enjoyed life living on a 130-acre hobby farm where they grew flax and barley.
After six years in Manitoba, John's career brought the family to Ottawa, where he worked at the Atomic Energy Control Board for 25 years. His work took him around the world, including South America, Europe, Japan, and South Korea. In his leisure time, John enjoyed sailing, cross-country skiing, gardening, and researching his family history.
Upon retiring in 2000, John and Gill moved to Qualicum Beach, British Columbia. He joined the Newcomers Club, making many new friends and participating in activities such as walking, playing bridge, pub lunches, and wine-tasting He spent many hours volunteering at Milner Gardens on construction projects and helping with the Christmas Milner Magic light displays. He also assisted with the One Act Play festivals at the Village Theatre in Qualicum, designing and printing posters and taking photos at the award ceremonies. Throughout his life, John valued his trips back to Australia to reconnect with friends and family. He was also an avid hiker, completing four trips to southwest England, where he and Gill hiked a total of 320 miles on the coastal paths. He loved languages, spoke two fluently and could communicate in others.
John was predeceased by his younger brother Evan and is survived by his wife, Gill, his sons Sean (Genevieve) and Duncan (Aurea), and his grandchildren Evan, Winston, Emma, and Donovan, as well as family members in Australia. He will be deeply missed by them all.
The family would like to thank friends, neighbours, the Parksville Legion, home support nurses and aides, and the Trillium Hospice for their help and kindness during John's illness.
There will be a Celebration of Life later in the summer.
