Obituary of George Lester "Les" Coyle

COYLE, George Lester “Les” - Age 80, concluded a great life lived at home in Bridgewater, February 9, 2022, with his devoted wife and best friend of almost 40 years, Linda, at his side. Throughout the course of his recent illness, Les faced each challenge with the easygoing optimism and pragmatism that endeared him to so many in his large circle of friends and extended family. 

Born in Saint John, NB January 6, 1942, Les was the youngest of three children, and was predeceased by his father, George Aloysius Coyle; mother, Evelyn Regina (Creamer) Coyle Reicker; and sister, Doreen Evelyn Coyle Hanson. In addition to his wife, Linda Coyle, Les is survived by two daughters, Leslie Coyle, and Anne (Greg) Melanson; sister, Helen (Coyle) Bodo; and nephews, John (Ruth) Jennings, David Jennings, Stephen Jennings (Denise Snow), and Michael Freigy. He also leaves his beloved grandsons, Ian Melanson and Jack Melanson, of whom he was immensely proud, and whose photographs grace virtually every corner of his home. 

Les joined the R.C.M.P. as an 18-year-old and served as a police officer for 23 years, before deciding that it was time for an entirely new adventure. He purchased a defunct beverage room and reincarnated it into a pub that he successfully ran as owner/operator for two decades. Lifelong friendships and great stories of misadventure were acquired during both of his careers. 

In Les’ world, no problem was too large, no question too complex, and, endearingly, the answer was often, “well let’s just have a beer and discuss it.” Many of the world’s most confounding problems were thusly resolved in the company of buddies, with whom he generously shared his startling wisdom and sly wit.

Until his recent illness, Les taught the master class on how to get every moment out of the life you live. He loved boating and spent time out on the water with his friends in the sunshine, playing cribbage and sharing laughs. Woodworking brought him joy and he spent endless hours in his workshop creating treasures. He loved his family and friends, and relished hosting them over dinner feasts (and never said “no” to either gravy or to pie). His faith was strong and he unselfishly devoted himself to his church community and those within it. The list of things Les truly cared about was small, but it included big things: family, friends, faith, food, and fun. 

Being a member of the R.C.M.P. Veterans Association, Royal Canadian Legion Branch #24, and St. Joseph’s Parish community brought Les great happiness, and to the members of these communities, the family wishes to say “thank you.” 

Special thanks to Dr. Megan Gillis, Dr. Michael Biddulph, Dr. David Wilson, Dr. Helmut Hollenhorst, and Les’ long time friend and partner-in-crime Jim Harvey, for their devotion to his care in the last few months. 

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Sweeny’s Funeral Home, Bridgewater. A funeral mass celebrating Les’ life will be held Saturday, February 19 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish, 123 Pleasant Street, Bridgewater. Space for attendance is limited and all attending will be asked to provide proof of double vaccination and I.D.  Wearing face masks and observing social distancing during the ceremony will also be required. Due to Covid, there will be no reception following the service. Family members will be notified of burial, which will happen at a later date. Legion friends will be notified at an upcoming memorial celebration. Flowers from family only please; friends are invited to consider in memorium donations in lieu of flowers, to either Souls Harbour, Bridgewater, or Salvation Army…two causes Les supported, that were close to his heart. Thanks from all of us, Les. Your memory is a blessing. On-line condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com