Passed away on March 28, 2026, at NRGH. He leaves behind two daughters Paula (Rob) and Carole (Glen), ex/lifelong friend Huguette, two grand daughters Justine and Victoria, sisters Anna and Maria (Kim), nieces and nephews, friends and family across the world. Predeceased by his mother Phyllis (1943), parents Thomas Gerald (2009) and Daisy (2010), brother Gerard (2002), sister-in-law Valentine (2023) and brother-in-law Gary (2014).
Michael was born in England on July 30,1943 and immigrated to Canada in 1965. His career spanned many decades in the marine industry. Notably, he was a Master Mariner who worked more than 20 years at BC Ferries and spent several years in the Naval Reserves, primarily working in support of the Canadian Cadet Program with RCSCC 296, the sea cadets in Parksville. He was long active in many marine-related organizations, and with the Royal Canadian Legion, where he served his community as a past President of the Lantzville Branch 257.
Known as Mike, or Mikee/Mikey, he will be remembered for his love of a good joke and being the life of the party. He loved the Blue Jays, a good Scotch, books, movies, and especially flags and all things nautical. He lived life on his own terms, for better or worse. He will be missed. A celebration of life, or final birthday party, will be held in an informal, open-house style, at the Lantzville Legion on his birthday July 30, 2026, between the hours of 1 and 2:30pm. His remains will be placed at the Royal Oak Burial Park in Victoria, alongside his parents and grandparents, in early August.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Pat and Bob Russell
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Petra Deepest sympathies to all of Mike’s family.
Mike will be missed, his humour and stories will last with all forever.
Fair winds and following seas Mike.
Petra
Dear Paula, Carole and family:
I was sad to hear of your dads passing on March 28th, 2026. I first met Mike when he immigrated from England in 1965, and we became fast friends. We had many funny and riotous times together, and he was the best man at my first wedding in 1972. He was later a great support to me after Shirleys passing in 1981. We kept in touch over the years, and he was present at my second wedding to Pat, in 2002. These are all good memories now!
Rest in Peace “Ratbag”