Roy Edward COLEMAN

COLEMAN, Roy Edward August 26, 1912 August 24, 2007 Roy Edward Coleman was born in Farningham, Kent, England, August 26, 1912. He served his country in World War II as a pilot for the Air Transport Auxiliary. In 1947 he immigrated to Canada with his three sons, Bill, John and Bob. His dream of having an English Pub in Canada came true in 1950 when he purchased the Fulford Inn on Saltspring Island. It was here that he met his future wife, Yolande Decosse, a nurse who attended to his young son John in the hospital. Yolande became a loving mother to Roy's three boys and together they had two daughters, Suzanne and Louise. Roy and family moved to Victoria in 1955 and continued his pre-war occupation as a building and stucco contractor. He was a founding member of the Victoria Home Builders Association and built many fine Tudor homes in the Victoria area. He was a member of the Air Crew Association (Sidney), a member of the Air Transport Auxiliary Association and a member of the Capital City Yacht Club. He never lost his love of flying and especially his love of Spitfires. He instilled the joy of boating and cruising the Gulf Islands in all his children and their families. Roy is survived by his loving friend and companion, Margaret Campbell. He also leaves to mourn his passing, his loving wife Yolande, who was at his side for 45 years, his sons and daughters, Bill Coleman (Isabel), John Coleman (Sue), Bob Coleman (Cathy), Suzanne Bulmer (Pat), Louise Scott (Ian) and grandchildren William and Michael Coleman: David and Joanne Coleman: Tim and Nadine Coleman: Aleisha, Trevor and Sarah Bulmer: Courtenay, Eric and Hanna Scott, Steven Coleman, Angus and Maeve Connorton, Jessica and Nicholas Coleman: Spencer Phillips and many nieces and nephews. Roy was predeceased by his siblings, Betty, Jack, Barbara and Jean and great granddaughter Jody Coleman. The family would like to give thanks to Dr. Charles Medhurst and staff, Darshan Bains (VHC), South Victoria Home Care and the members of the Oak Bay Fire Department. Also, our love and appreciation to our sister Louise, the best nurse of all. "Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, and danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings. Pilot, boater, traveler, father and friend .... you lived life to the fullest. "Cheers" and "Over-and-Out" Dad, we'll miss you. 403596 Published in the Victoria Times-Colonist on 8/31/2007.