On Saturday, June 20, 2020, Robert Michael Blades, loving husband, father, brother and uncle passed away at the age of 70.
Mike was born in Halifax, NS to Lionel and Lillian (Garrison) Blades. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from UVic in 1976 and later achieved a Chartered Accountant Designation in 1983. He fulfilled his aspiration to have his own practice until retirement in 2010. He married the love of his life, Vicky (Zellenskey) on May 8, 1976. They raised two sons, Max and Duncan.
Mike was an amazing athlete, whether it be baseball, gymnastics, football, rugby or squash, he excelled. A great card player and a Life Master of Bridge at the age of 26. He loved the Yankees, the Seahawks and a good hot dog.
Mike was predeceased by his father Lionel in 1955 and his mother Lillian in 2005. He is survived by his wife Vicky, sons Max (Alexandra), Duncan (Alexis), his brother Jim (Gayle), his sister Susan Woodburn, mother-in-law Irene Dumka, sister-in-law Tina Burrows (Walt), nieces and nephews.
A private celebration of Mike’s life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike’s name to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, c/o Alzheimer Society of BC https://www.alzheimerbc.org/
The long, hard journey is over. Rest in Peace our dear Mikey, we will love you always! Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
80 Responses
Dear Vicky,
Thinking of you and your family with caring thoughtsl. Great photo of Mike…it brought back many fond memories from our younger years. Having done some gymnastics at OB Junior with Mike (he was such a great athlete)….and connected later through both rugby and our card-playing Moms….what I remember most is Mike’s smile, his big laugh, the constant twinkle in his eyes, and his kindness….he was always kind. May you and your family now find comfort in knowing how loved you were and knowing that you loved Mike beautifully until the end. RIP Mike.
This has brought back many fun and fond memories of Mike when we were growing up. My condolences to the family, he will be truly missed
Vicky, our sincere condolences go out to you and your family. Mike was a great friend and as a business colleague was one of the most dedicated and hard working guys I ever knew. Your Christmas parties and our ski trips together are great memories. Mike’s sense of humour, his sports prowess and allegiance to his many friends will be missed by many. We will always remember him.
Jim & Liz Gillies
Vicky and family,
So sorry to see Mike’s passing. You have wonderful memories of him and all the joy you shared.
Thinking of you at this sad time. Doug and Jan Hemming
Mike was honest, reliable, interesting, funny, considerate, kind and a great friend. He will be sorely missed.
We all have so many memories of Mike, he was always so much fun to be around, a really special person. Love to all of you, Laurie, Tim, Kevin and Sean White
Dear Vicky, Max and Duncan. The picture of Mike is exactly how we remember him, full of laughter and fun! We have so many amazing memories at the baseball park and hockey rink and when we think of Mike it always brings a smile to our face. We were so blessed to have know him. He will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Much love Dave, Maureen and family.
John Gidden
I am so sorry to learn of Mike’s passing. I am old friend of the family from our school days
in Oak BAy when Mike grew up on Epworth Street. My thoughts are with you Jim and Susan. Again my
deepest sympathy
Paul Docherty
Vicky, so sorry to hear about Mike. A great guy and better friend.
Vicky, Max & Duncan,
We are very sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. Our thoughts are with you. Mike will always have special place in our hearts.