Monday, April 25, 2022 at 12:00 a.m.
Coombes, John
JOHN COOMBES, beloved husband of Valerie Coombes of Coalhurst, passed away at home on Thursday, April 14, 2022, at the age of 91 years.
JOHN COOMBES, beloved husband of Valerie Coombes of Coalhurst, passed away at home on Thursday, April 14, 2022, at the age of 91 years.
Besides his loving wife, he is survived by his children; David (Elaine) Coombes of Lethbridge, Richard Coombes of Coalhurst; grandchildren Ian (Marcella) Coombes and Michael (Amanda) Coombes; siblings Pamela Roberts and Marina (Sid) Lewis, and well as many nieces and nephews in Canada, England, New Zealand and Australia.
He was predeceased by his parents Edward George and Amelia Alice Coombes, as well as his seven siblings.
John was born and raised in Headley, England. He joined the Royal Navy when he was 18, and served for 12 years as an aircraft mechanic on many aircraft carriers, notably HMS Illustrious. He married Val in 1956 in Headley, England. They raised their 2 sons David and Richard in Cirencester, England where John worked as a mechanic. In 1974 they immigrated to Canada and settled in Coalhurst. Alongside his brother Ron and many others, they volunteered to help build the Community Centre and Coalhurst Legion.
John Coombes loved nothing more than weaving a great story or leading a sing-a-long. He never missed out on the opportunity to volunteer in his community including as Commander of the Navy League of Canada-Lethbridge-branch, President of Coalhurst Legion, President of 55+ Club of Coalhurst. His sense of humour and ability to make you smile were his super powers.
He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He adored his grandsons and took great pleasure seeing them on the soccer field. He will be missed.
A Celebration of John's Life will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME - 2825 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Monday, April 25, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. with Pat Siedlecki officiating.
Following the Celebration of Life, tributes, words of remembrance and some storytelling will be shared at a Reception in John's Honour at the COALHURST ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION - 5205 6 St, Coalhurst, AB.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart Function Clinic, c/o Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, 960 - 19 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, T1J 1W5.
Guestbook (13)
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Arohanui, sending you much love on your journey ?
Love and miss you Uncle John, so glad you made it to the reunion. Will always remember your stories xx The Godfather x
Sincerest condolences to the whole family. He will be greatly missed by not only his family but also the community of Coalhurst.
So sad to hear of Johns passing. Such a great friend to all our family for many years. R.I.P John xx
My condolences to Richard and the Coombes family. How blessed John was to have lived a long life with such a loving family, and that his passing was peaceful. I hope that brings you comfort in the days ahead.
John was a wonderful friend to me and my husband, very fond memories x
So many fond memories of a wonderful man
I have many very fond memories of John. He was a mentor and a very good friend. I looked up to him as a father figure. I have been very blessed to have had the opportunity to know such a gentleman and soul. Love always and never forgotten sailor!! ??
Our condolences to Richard and all the Coombes family on John's passing. We know he was loved very much by his family and will be greatly missed.
Such a nice man so sorry for your loss. He was always the embodiment of the Royal Navy to me! Regards Tom
Always a leader, and well respected man. Farewell Uncle John xx
Sorry for your loss ~~ a kind and gentle soul as I Romberg John during my time at bank ~ was always smiling and enjoyed people - regards to all Family
Our condolences from the Seiz Family.