Philip G. Coates

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Philip G. Coates of Sagamore Beach.
He was born to the late Albert and Ruth Coates (Scanell) of North Andover on September 23rd,
1936. After high school, Phil joined the United States Air Force. He served 4 years in the service
and was stationed in Japan for the majority of his time. After the service, Phil learned and
worked with a skilled builder, George Miller. At this time, he learned to build, repair and create
almost anything. He was always very grateful to George for teaching him these skills that he
used throughout his life to assist friends and family with any projects and odd jobs that they
undoubtedly called on him for.
After leaving the service, Phil decided to pursue higher education at the University of
Massachusetts in Amherst. He earned a degree in marine biology. Shortly after graduation, Phil
began to work for the State of Massachusetts at the Division of Marine Fisheries. At this time, he
also met his late beloved wife of 42 years, Mary Ann (Curtis). They were married and started
their new life together in Sagamore Beach.
During his 35 years at the division, he spent the last 21 of those years as the director until his
retirement in 2000. As director, he represented Massachusetts on the New England Fishery
Management Council and served as a representative on the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
Commission. He also received the prestigious David Hart award from the ASMFC.
Phil was an avid outdoorsman who shared and passed along this passion to his family and
friends. A lifelong angler, he also enjoyed collecting and fixing antique fishing equipment. Phil
enjoyed tending to his garden, puttering in his woodshop, and perfecting his recipe for
sourdough bread. An avid walker, he was frequently seen walking around the neighborhood,
checking in and sharing stories with anyone who listened.
More than anything in life, Phil cherished and adored all his family. Phil is survived by his son
Jeffrey Coates and his partner, Jamie Karlson; and daughter Susan Grinsell and her husband
Stephen. He also leaves behind his seven grandchildren, Jared, Joseph, Andrew, Alex, James,
Jenny, Ben and his four great-grandchildren, Maggie, Jack, Charles, and William. Phil is also
survived by his siblings, Paula Cahow of Londonderry, N.H., Doug Coates of Whately, MA, and
Stephen Coates of Georgetown, MA; and his many nieces and nephews. Phil also leaves behind
his sister-in-law, Susan Kramer and her husband Bren of Baton Rouge, LA.
Relatives and friends are welcome to attend the visiting hours on Saturday, October, 5th, 2024
between 2 - 5 p.m. at Chapman Funerals and Cremations, 2599 Cranberry Hwy. (Rt. 28), Wareham, MA.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to support cancer research
at: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute P.O. Box 849168 Boston, MA 02284 or via dana-farber.org/gift.