It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our husband, father and grandfather. Born 9 June 1931 in Garrison, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. On 22 July 2024, in his 94th year, Michael passed away peacefully at St. Joseph's Hospital, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia.
Leaving behind his wife, Helen, sons Micky Joe (predeceased), Gerald (Gerry), daughters Susan, Teresa and Kathleen. Grandchildren Ryan (predeceased), Danielle, the twins Kieran and Devin, and Abbey and the beloved cat Kiwi. He also leaves behind a brother Pat and sister Roseanne, along with many cousins and relatives in Ireland.
Michael married his wife Helen on 3 April 1956 in Glascow, Scotland and enjoyed 68 years of love and harmony. Together they embarked on a journey to Canada to start a new life. Arriving in Toronto in November 1956, they caught the bus to Hamilton, and new beginnings ensued. Mike took a job as an orderly at the Psychiatric Hospital, later working at Stelco. A few years later Michael was accepted into Local 18, the Carpenters Union. As a carpenter he worked at many job sites in Ontario. Mike took on a new experience, building smoke stacks. This meant travel and time away from family, He was in Boston, MA, USA, Fort McMurray, AB and London, ON to name a few.
The family made a yearly pilgrimage to Sault St. Marie, ON, the last two weeks of August for a camping trip. Mike was a huge baseball fan (NY Yankees), often listening to two games simultaneously on two transistor radios. Michaels's love for Gaelic Football and Hurling was heightened when the All Ireland was played. He never missed a match, travelling to the Irish Club in Mississauga along with many other Irish supporters to root on their favorite team.
A special thank you to the palliative care team at St. Joseph's Hospital, they ensured that Mike was as comfortable as possible as he battled Lewy Body Dementia. The team kept the family apprised of the steps being taken to assist him with his illness. A big thank you to the Nurses in Nephrology, (7th floor) and ALC (6th floor). These are the locations Mike rested while receiving care. The compassion, care and support provided to Michael and his family was outstanding.
We will all miss you. Safe travels.
Visitation will take place at KITCHING, STEEPE & LUDWIG FUNERAL HOME, 146 Mill St. N. Waterdown, on Friday July 26, 2024 from 5 – 8 pm. A Funeral Mass will take place at OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL CHURCH, 79 Freelton Rd, Freelton on Saturday July 27, 2024 at 10 a.m. Immediately following the funeral mass, a Reception will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 36, 280 King St W, Dundas.
