Michael Dennis Baumtrog

February 10, 1949 – January 24, 2026.

It is with great sadness we announce our father, Michael Dennis Baumtrog passed away peacefully surrounded by love with his children by his side, at Lisaard House in Cambridge, on January 24th 2026.

Michael is now reunited with his parents, Clement and Anne Baumtrog, and his sisters, Mary Lou and Lois Baumtrog.

He leaves behind his loving children, Matthew (Marina) and Emily (Adam), and his cherished grandchildren: Mya, Amelia, Noah, Benjamin, Dasha, Katya, and Anna.

Michael will be deeply missed by his twin brother, Clement (Carolyn), and his younger brothers, Richard and Ronald (Francesca).

Michael will be fondly remembered by Sharon (Baumtrog), Sandy, and Robyn.

He will also be lovingly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, with whom he shared lifelong friendships and countless memories.

Michael was born in Toronto and raised in Blair. He attended St. Clement’s School in Preston, St. Jerome’s High School in Kitchener and Preston High School. Michael spent his entire life in Preston, a place he was incredibly proud to call home. He loved sharing stories from his childhood and never missed an opportunity to talk about the town he cherished so deeply.

A skilled and respected auto mechanic, Michael spent many years working at Tessman’s, where he formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of many.

He later went on to work at Walker Exhaust, Clare Brothers and Frink, where he made many friendships along the way.

A true car enthusiast, he took great pride in his red 1968 (and a half) Dodge Dart GTS 340 and enjoyed many memorable years with his beloved sports car.

Michael was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion. Some of his most cherished moments were spent at the Preston branch, where he enjoyed playing pool, shuffleboard, and card games. He was well known and warmly regarded at the Legion, where he formed many meaningful friendships that he valued deeply.

Michael was a devoted Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Blue Jays fan, proudly supporting his teams through every high and low, always holding on to hope and patiently waiting for the day they would become champions once again.

The greatest joys of Michael’s life were his children, Matthew and Emily. When his grandchildren came along, he became the proudest “Poppy” of all — lovingly known to them as “Minute Poppy.” He treasured time spent teaching card games such as Crazy Eights and Cribbage, watching hockey and horseback riding, and sitting outside with a coffee while enjoying their laughter and play. His two youngest grandchildren, born just three months apart, formed a special bond with him in a short but meaningful time.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff, nurses, and PSWs who provided compassionate care and support to our dad during his final days. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held at Barthel Funeral Home, 566 Queenston Rd., Cambridge, on Monday February 2nd, from 2:00 - 4:00 and 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. with Parish Prayers offered at 8:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass to celebrate his life will take place at St. Clements Church, 745 Duke St., Cambridge on Tuesday February 3rd at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Parklawn Cemetery, Cambridge.

Life will never be the same without you, Dad. We will love you forever.

See you in a “minute”.