William Jeffrey Coles

Prof. Coles was my teacher at the U. I took differential equations with him. He was a caring person and excellent teacher. I did my undergrad in math at the U.

Bill was a central figure in my life for all the years I spent at the University of Utah. We did mathematics together, played tennis, hiked and hunted. -Grant Gustafson

It is hard to think of Bill being gone. Although I have been a bit out of touch in recent years, I have marvelous memories of hiking, backpacking, and ski trips shared with Bill and Joan. Sitting in a tent in the Wind Rivers in a pouring rainstorm and singing "We're coming in on a wing and a prayer" is but one of many. Rest in peace, Bill. We all miss you.

Katy Partridge White

Please have no doubts about how much the family appreciates the memories of Bill that you have taken the thought, time, and effort to share. Your memories and comments mean the world to us. Here is another photo of Dad.

So sorry and so sad to read this. Our condolences to Joan, and the family. A great party guest, droll wasn't the half of it. I remember most a rafting trip with him and Joan where we shared naughty Limericks while imbibing copious amounts of grog.

I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passings! Bill was a favorite of mine a long time ago. When I was a new bride in 1967 my husband Robert Barnhill had been recruited by Bill when he and Joan were at the U of Wisconsin for his sabbatical. The U of U needed a Numerical Analyst and Bill worked his magic on Bob so we moved to SLC in 1967. Bill mentored Bob in being a professor. We always enjoyed our times with the Coles both Bill and Joan were gracious hosts and taught us about fine dining...

I knew Bill as a brilliant and generous mathematician always willing to share his expertise and as an outdoorsman where we both hiked and skied together. In his later years, I loved his wonderfully witty essays.

You and our journeys across the desert will be with me forever,
Your Partner "Charlie Raines"