Richard "Dick" John COLES

In Loving Memory of Richard (Dick) John Coles,

Born September 30, 1931 Halifax, NS, Died May 4, 2025, Duncan, BC

Dick will be lovingly remembered by his four children: Rick (Karen), Cheryl (Ed), Don (Wendy), and Lisa (Sam); his grandchildren: Brandon, Melissa, Kevin, Cole, Cody, Travis, Jake, Jessie, Jenna, Amber, Patrick, and Geordie; and his great-grandchildren: Anastasia, Noah, Kate, Ben, Jack, Max, Florence and Margot. His legacy lives on in each of them. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Marie, and by his sisters Ann and Ev. He leaves behind his sister Di, who, along with his extended family and many friends, will miss him deeply.

An active and adventurous spirit, Dick was a proud member of the Victoria Snow Birds, enjoying winters on the slopes at Silver Lake and Forbidden Plateau. Summers were spent at the hand built family cabin on Lake Cowichan, where he and Marie raised their children with a deep appreciation for nature and family time. Those golden summers left lasting memories that continue to bring joy to all who shared them. Dick also held a free miner’s license, panning for gold in the early days.

Dick began his career as a typewriter technician with Remington Rand in Vancouver. With a keen mind for emerging technologies, he and a colleague ventured across Europe, conducting training sessions and sharing the latest in Remington Rand innovations—a journey that blended work with the adventure of a lifetime.

Eventually settling in Victoria, Dick proposed to Marie and also built their family home with his own hands. The house on Ryan Hill became the focal point summer and winter. In winter, Dick would swing by City of Victoria Public Works and bring enough traffic barricades home to block the "hill" off when it snowed. In summer, it was keeping the pool full of water for the neighbourhood kids!

Alongside three former colleagues, he co-founded Island Business Machines, which grew into the largest business equipment supplier on the South Island. Fifteen years later, Dick launched his own enterprise; Remco Office Systems. With vision and dedication, he transformed it into one of British Columbia’s premier Sharp business equipment dealerships. His success was marked by Sharp Electronics’ recognition with opportunities to travel around the world, including trips to Hawaii, Japan, China, Germany, and Monaco.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, as honorary members, Dick and Mary both volunteered at the Veselka Ukrainian Hall. They were either watching Cheryl, Don and Lisa dance or were helping in the kitchen cranking out perogies and holipchi. Dick was also a dedicated member of the Gordon Head Lions Club, where he served proudly as president. His leadership and community spirit were deeply appreciated and will be fondly remembered. Friday nights were a special time for Dick and Marie as they spent many decades connecting with a close group of friends known as the Happy Gang.

Dick’s life was defined by integrity, innovation, and an unshakable love for family. His warmth, humour, and tireless work ethic left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Celebration of Life to be held at The Hub, Cowichan Station, BC on July 20th, 2025 at 1pm. RSVP~