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
Condolences to the family.
Mike was memorable in many areas of his life and will be missed by many.
Cheryl Kruger
AirBc
My Condolences to the family !!
May his memory be eternal !
Our condolences to Mike’s family. RIP Mike
Alida Bevan
Linda and Tom
Gail and I offer our Deepest condolences for your loss.
I have so many memories of Mike from his time at AirBC, Softball teams
He will be missed.
Mike was our boss in Lethbridg along with Steve Bogie.
We enjoyed teasing and laughing with them both.
Really great times, really great boss.
I’m saddened by this news and offer condolences to you all.
Mr and Mrs Essery,
My sincerest condolences to you. Mike and I have been friends for many years through our AirBC connections. I have many fond memories of Mike and was deeply saddened with the news of his passing. May you find strength in his loving memories in the days ahead.
Warmest regards,
Cindy Toye
May his memory be eternal.
My condolences to the Essery family and friends. Mike made everyday going to school and fun and always interesring experience. I will miss the idea that he is just a phone call or a facwbook message away. Our 40 year reunion next year will be one less of our friends and beauriful memories. Soar high in the sky Mikey.
Linda, Tom and family,
Dad and offer our deepest most heartfelt condolences. There are no words. So very sorry.
Allan and Rick
Linda/Tom,
Rebecca and I offer our sincerest condolences. I count Mike among my good friends and I am deeply saddened.
Andy