I had the honour and privilege to serve with Admiral Coates in HMAS Canberra. My posting to Canberra was my first as a Senior Sailor and as Commanding Officers' Secretary. Nigel Coates had a gift for being able to calm those around him in times of pressure. His kind nature and loyalty to those who served with him are but a scratch on the surface of how I will always remember him. He respected his Senior Sailors; he went to great lengths to guide all Junior Officers who served with him; he was always a friend. Never before has one person has so great an impact upon me as has Nigel Coates. I feel a deep sadness for his wife and children of whom he always spoke dearly of. I feel an emptiness knowing that he no longer walks amongst us. I feel grateful for having known him, proud to have served alongside him, joyous to have many wonderful memories. Taken too soon, but has given so much. Louise Bagger ex POWTR COSEC HMAS Canberra 1997-98 Friend

I only knew Nigel as the quiet, very poised, but always friendly and welcoming husband of Vick and father to Tim, Ben and Steph. I had no idea of the extent of his job, of the professional way with which he did his job, and the great love and respect his fellow Navy personnel felt for him. I was extremely proud of him and his achievements when we farewelled Nige at his funeral on Wednesday. I was nervous but honored that Vick asked me to do a reading at the service. I was proud that I could say he was part of my family. I know you will be missed terribly Nige, and I will do my best to look after Vicki and the family. I hope you have gone to a place with no sadness and pain and we will see each other again one day. Julie

My heart hurt as we (Our navy family) has lost a honorable man and a great leader. Where not too many man and women will follow but with him as a leader you would always find ones wanting to be near him and listen to what he had to say.. My husband had the pleasure to service under his command and also receive an award from him as did I in meeting him. My best wishes goes to his whole family and I only hope they know how loved and respected he was in his other family. RIP Sir Kindest regards Jude Tietzel-Berry

My club was presenting a sail-training trip to 2 lads on the Young Endeavour on March 18th 2008. Adm. Coates was the guest of honour. As I was walking to the training ship from Wooloomoloo Pier a car pulled up. The crew of HMS Sydney, berthed alongside, recognised the Admiral and came to a smart salute. We appreciated Nigel giving of his time on that day, he was a very amiable and generous man and I know he was hugely valued by his colleagues. It's a terrible pity that he was taken from us so early. My earnest sympathy to his family, friends and colleagues.

Nigel, you were a wonderful, compassionate and caring leader and friend. Only a very few in this world have been gifted with your sense of kindness and decency. I am so sorry, I thought we had a lot more time to catch up for that drink..... Our deepest sympathies go to Vickie, Stephanie, Tim and Ben, Sandy, and Nigel's parents and Hugh David De Souza RANR, and with Debbie and Keith.