It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Willem “Bill” Coster of Coleman, Alberta who, after battling a lengthy illness, died on September 14, 2014 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre at the age of 79 years.
Bill was born on March 5, 1935 in Nykerk, Netherlands. He was raised with respect for his family, his country and with a strong work ethic. When of age, he joined the Dutch military and defended the freedoms we enjoy today. He immigrated to Canada in 1956. Bill was blessed with a family of his own and after several years, he found true love with his beloved Eileen and they pledged their love in marriage on June 10, 1972
Throughout his life, Bill was employed at Phillips Cable for 21 years, worked for R & R Lumber and was the owner of Coster’s Ceramic Tile & Rock Work. He was a skilled tile setter and his craftsmanship is still present and admired today in many homes throughout Alberta and British Columbia.
Bill’s other passions included watching hockey (especially the Calgary Flames), predicting the weather, playing cards, caring for his canine companions and listening to music by The Highwaymen, Bee Gees and other favourite artists. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather as well as a loyal friend. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Eileen Coster of Coleman; his daughters, Pauline Coster of Hillcrest, Mina (Wade Johnson) Coster of Blairmore and April Coster of Bellevue, AB; his sons, Matthew (Dori) Coster of Vulcan and Willem Coster Jr. of Okotoks; his grandchildren, Drake Coster, Brandon, Ryan & Corby Coster-Tarcon, Billy Coster, Kayla Nickle and Sabryna & Sydney Martin; his siblings, Ruud (Janny) Bakker of the Netherlands, Charles (Karen) Cox and Carolyn (Jim) Haiav; his dog Jake; his grand-dog Junior; as well as his extended family and many friends.
He was predeceased by his parents and his infant daughter.
The Celebration of Bill’s Life will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2014 at 2:00 pm at the Blairmore Legion (13609-20th Ave).
Donations in memory of the late Willem Coster may be directed towards the Canadian Cancer Society, PO Box 359, Bellevue, AB T0K 0C0. Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel assisting the family. (403) 562-8555.