DONA MAE COATES

(née McInnis, June 7, 1930 – October 30, 2025) I paint so I can see better. I sing so I can hear better. – Dona Coates Dona passed peacefully, surrounded by her three children, Bruce, Janet, and David. Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, Dona's life was defined by curiosity, creativity, and love. She shared 63 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Donald Coates – an adventurous partner in travel, an avant-garde psychiatrist, and a steadfast champion of her artistic and professional pursuits. Dona earned a Master of Arts degree from the University of British Columbia and devoted her career to the advancement of early childhood education, where her intellect, empathy, and imagination inspired generations of learners. A memorial is not planned at this time, but family and friends will be notified if an event is arranged in the new year. In Dona's memory, please consider a donation to the D and D Coates Fund held at Vancity Community Foundation. This Fund supports annual contributions to charities that were close to their hearts (vancitycf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1070).