April 4, 1949 - November 6, 2018
Passed away in his 69th year at home in Pt. McNeill, BC November 6, 2018.
Raised in both Sarita River and Nanaimo by a family well known in the logging industry, Mike moved to the Nimpkish Valley as a teenager for work and settled in Pt. McNeill in 1982.
Mike is survived by his favourite and loyal dragon-lady, Mary (married July 19, 1974); his children James (Andrea), Nicky (Rian); his grandchildren Maya, Anika and Sam; his siblings Christina (Coeur d'Alene, Idaho), John (Victoria, BC) and Paul (Nanaimo, BC); his brother-in-law Dave Macmurchie (Shawnigan Lake, BC); and so many around the world who loved him, and whom he loved.
Mike was initially employed in the logging industry (as power saw mechanic, chokerman, hook tender, faller) but ended his working days as a picture framer when multiple sclerosis demanded less physical work. (Thank you Gordon and Ann Henschel.)
Mike was a keen sports enthusiast, devoting his early years to playing football, lacrosse, and baseball while doing his best to add hockey at 30 years of age. As an involved father, Mike volunteered many hours coaching and scheduling minor hockey and baseball. He also enjoyed darts, chess, bridge, cribbage and other "brain" games such as trivial pursuit.
While Mike's life was shorter than anyone would have wished, there is no doubt in those he leaves behind that it was a life filled with love. His sense of humour and ever present smile told us so. We find great comfort in his peaceful passing and life long support and love from so many friends.
We are also extremely grateful to Mike's medical team providing care for many years and enabling him to return to his North Island home for the last months: Dr. Armogam (Dr. Avery for many years prior); Nursing and Paramedic staff (30 plus years); Pharmacy staff; incredible Homecare Services; Happy Gang, Wellness, Better at Home and Adult Day Programs, N.I. Transportation; and years of friendship and encouragement at the A-Frame Church. All involved made Mike's life the best it could be!
A warm and light-hearted celebration of Mike's life was held November 10, 2018 at St. John Gualbert (Anglican-United Fellowship) A-Frame Church in Pt. McNeill, BC.