With great sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son, Michael Jon, in Victoria, far too early at the age of 56 with so much more to offer to this earth.
Survived by his grieving parents, Linda and Tom, brother Tom Jr. (Rachel) nephews Mark, Austin and niece Linda Ana, his favourite uncle Alfred, and Rhonda, Michael’s partner of many years. Michael will also be dearly missed by his many aunts, uncles and cousins all of whom loved his wonderful, infectious charm, intelligence, wit and warmth.
Michael’s passion from an early age was aviation. He gained his private pilot’s license at 16 years of age. Beginning his career at age 13 as a part-time “ramp rat” with Air West in the inner harbour, he advanced with what became Air BC to ground management positions in Victoria, Prince George, Calgary and Edmonton. Countless friends and colleagues loved his sense of humour and respected and admired his management skills and ability to bring people together. Michael’s, career highlight, in which he took great pride, was with BC Emergency Health Services where his dedication and leadership were well recognized. His final position was Director, Aviation Provincial Programs.
Goodbye, our darling son, may you rest in eternal peace.
There will be a celebration of life announced at a future date.
Donations to the SPCA https://www.spca.bc.ca/branches/victoria/
or the Wild Arc Foundation in Michael’s memory would be gratefully appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com.
90 Responses
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Linda and Tom. I remember the day he was born and we were living in your basement suite in 1964. It seems just like yesterday. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
I am sorry to hear about Mike. He was my high school friend and crush, I am.so sorry to hear about this, I am greatly saddened, Kathy
Please accept my deepest condolences. Mike was an intelligent, personable, honest and welcoming man. May he rest in everlasting arms of Peace.
Dear Linda, Tom, and Tommy,
I just want to add a little note here to say I’m thinking of you so much, and my heart goes out to you all. I hope these memories are a bit of healing for you on this difficult journey. My time with Michael was so many years ago (elementary school!) but the fun we had playing together & exploring the woods near our homes are among my most vivid and treasured memories growing up. Michael set the bar high on future friendships, that’s for sure! I remember him as fiercely loyal (no bully could get near me when he was around) and full of mischief, which suited me! As the youngest in our families, we learned how to stay under the radar, which gave us lots of room for shenanigans. He was always so sweet to me… and we were confidants and could chat away for hours. I even remember some of those conversations, so funny! I think I was a very lucky little girl indeed to have that friendship. Michael and your family will always have a special place in my heart.
Love and hugs, Catriona
I had the pleasure of being in the same “Career Exploration” course as Mike, during Grade 10 at Cedar Hill Jr. Secondary. While my 3 month experience at Ray’s Sporting Goods came and went, I always admired Mike for taking his experience and creating a life-long career. Years after graduating high school, I would see Mike down on the inner harbour and exchange greetings. I have very fond memories of Mike as being happy and a lot of fun during classes. My condolences to his family and everyone who knew him.
Linda & Tom:
Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time, but know that Mike was a kind and generous person with an incredible thirst for life which he shared with all he came in contact with.
I had the pleasure of working with Mike at AirBC and spent many years enjoying his company and companionship as we worked, laughed, grew and learned along the way.
He will be missed by those touched along the way.
Thank you my friend, rest in peace.
Dear Tom, Linda, Tom Jr. and all family,
I’m very saddened and sorry to hear of Michael’s passing. It’s heartening to hear he helped so many in his work, and was a much admired good friend to many.
With love and sympathy,
Jac Andre
Linda and Tom,
I was so saddened to hear about the passing of your son, Michael. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting him, I heard many stories through Linda at her dental appointments. He sounded like an amazing man that I wish I had the pleasure of meeting. I know how much you both loved and cherished him and know I am thinking of both of you during this sad time. Love to you both.
To Mike’s family, please accept my sincere condolences on his passing. The first time we met was in 2009 with the BC Ambulance Service and there was a mutual friendship that formed instantaneously. He was a genuinely caring person and had the gift of making you feel like you were his best friend. His smile was as huge as his heart and he has left a terrible void in all our lives but especially in that of his family. You raised a wonderful person! May you feel proud of the man he was and the happiness he brought to all he touched! RIP Mike…I will remember your smile and your bear hugs with fondness always!
Dear Linda and Tom,
How very sad. We will share in your sadness. You’re in our thoughts and prayers.
Blessings. Keith and Joan.