COOLE, Murray William

Passed away peacefully with family at his side at St. Joseph Health Centre on Saturday, September 26, at 84 years of age.  He is survived by his cherished and devoted wife of 60 years, Norma Betty (Church).  Loving father to Cathy (Andrew Chaput), Lisa (Roderick Donker), and Chris (Julie Lawson).  Proud Grampa to Caitlin (Jurgen Koehler), Bree, and Jake Chaput, and Robin Donker, and excited Great-Grampa to his fellow Timbit-lover, Ethan Koehler. 
Pre-deceased by his parents Henry (Harry) and Mary (Davis) Coole, and his brother, Ross Coole.  Survived by his sister, Shirley (Coole) Church.  He will be fondly remembered by his extended family, including nieces, nephews and many family friends.
 
Murray spent much of his life in Toronto but fell in love with Guelph in his 12 years here and became a proud Guelphite.
He was an educator and department head with the Toronto District School board.  His dedication to students with hearing impairment was a hallmark of his career, and he formed positive relationships with students and their families that often lasted past graduation.  In his retirement, he worked for the Toronto Blue Jays as a ticket-taker, including during their exciting World Series years.
Murray and Norma both enjoyed travel and meeting new people, so their many trips took them (and their bicycles) far and wide. 
From early in his youth, a passion for playing and watching sports defined him, and he spent many happy hours on the baseball diamond or at the hockey rink. Throughout his life, he continued to stay active bicycle riding, playing tennis (and later, pickleball!) and hockey, and bowling.  He was even skating into his early 80’s at the University of Guelph arena and riding his water bicycle at the family cottage on Belmont Lake.  He was an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Jays, and the Toronto Raptors. 
Murray’s family was his ultimate source of pride and he loved nothing more than spending time together.  He was definitely our cheerleader, supporting us all in our various endeavours in sports, dance, music and academics.  His devotion to his grandchildren’s sports extended through rep, high school, and varsity careers, and he had even started to attend games to cheer on the teams his grandchildren were coaching!
To honour his memory, chat with a stranger at a coffee shop, attend a sporting event, go for a bike ride or skate at a local arena, and cheer on the Blue Jays in their playoff run.
A private family memorial will take place.  Arrangements entrusted to WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL. If desired, donations may be made to the Guelph Children’s Foundation Free to Grow program, supporting children’s sports and activities.
Please click the link below for a celebration of Murray’s life.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a330xpylrto