Michael will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 43 years, Lyness; children, Allan (Sarah), Tamara (Andrew); grandchildren, Parker, Marlee, Fisher, Olyver, Arthur, Millie, Ivy; sister, Elizabeth (Glenn); nephew/niece; Christopher (Victoria), Laura (Patrick); mother, Iris; Brother in law, Jos, and many other family members and friends. Michael was predeceased by his father, Sydney; sister, Sharon; and nephew, Jonathan.
Michael was a dedicated man of science earning a BSc, MSc and M.A. and deeply devoted to his faith and his church. His commitment to serving others began early in life as a Boy Scout. He remained involved late into adulthood and introduced many young boys and girls to the skills and values that the Scouting movement embodies. One of Scouter Mike's proudest moments was receiving the Governor General’s award for his lifetime contribution to Scouts Canada, presented by the Chief Scout of Canada, Michaëlle Jean.
Michael spent many years coaching soccer for both his children, another testament to his commitment and dedication to his community and youth involvement. In 1998 Michael was awarded the Gloucester Volunteer Recognition Award. He will always be fondly remembered as ‘Coach Mike’.
In 1969 he stepped out of his academic career to teach at Mzuzu Government Secondary School in northern Malawi. He excelled as a teacher and befriended many students. He remained a dedicated friend to his group of CUSO Malawi alumni. When he returned to Canada he completed his Master’s degree at Carleton University. That led to a career as a scientist with the National Research Council (NRC) where he, again, developed lasting friendships and a reputation as a talented and fastidious professional.
Michael was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1997, he not only surprised the medical community with his resilience, strength, will and determination to live, he also remained committed to participating in clinical trials to hopefully one day find a cure. He was steadfast in his determination to fight the disease.
A service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. in Epiphany Anglican Church, 1290 Ogilvie Road, Ottawa, ON K1J 1H5 followed by a reception. Those who cannot join us in person are welcome to join us virtually at www.facebook.com/EpiphanyACC
In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations in Michael’s name may be made to Parkinson’s Canada www.parkinsons.ca or to a charity of your choice.
His family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Mendez and Dr. Mestre (Scientist, Neuroscience Program of The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute) for their dedication, care and attention to Michael over the last 25 years. Dr H. Cohen for his continued support and care for Michael and his family.
A special thank you to Dr. Bernier and Palliative care RN Anne, for your help coordinating care so Michael could be at home in his final days. Also, thank you to Dr. J. Brodeur, for her compassion, care and commitment to making sure we were well supported in caring for Michael.
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Parkinsons Society of Canada4211 Yonge St #316 , North York, Ontario M2P 2A9
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