Michael Joseph MacDonald

Predeceased by his Mom (Ivy) and in-laws John and Joan Smith, he is survived by his loving wife Debby of 52 years; his children Kyle (Lisa) and Teri; his grandchildren Bryce and Lucy; and his siblings Nancy (Dave) and Stuart (Pat), as well as many in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Born and raised in Oakville, Ontario, Mike was always tinkering with cars, hunting, doing odd jobs, working on the farm in the summer, and getting into trouble with his brother and friends. He joined the Sea Scouts which sparked a lifelong love of being on the water and ultimately led to his career.

He enlisted as a Boatswain in the Royal Canadian Navy in May 1967, completing his basic training at HMCS Cornwallis before his first posting on HMCS Bonaventure. Over his 30+ year career, he explored the world while serving from both the East and West Coasts, as part of 18 different ships/units, including his beloved HMCS Oriole, "10 Boat," and "The Bonnie." Known as "The Buffer," Mike mentored countless officers, sailors, and cadets throughout his career before being honourably released as a CPO2 in December 1998.

Following his naval service, Mike spent 13 years with the Commissionaires. His fantastic white beard and jolly nature also made him a perfect Santa, a role he happily played for several years, bringing smiles to countless people with pets and children throughout the Western Communities.

Mike travelled often for work but always looked forward to the times he could be home with his family. They shared many adventures and big campfires while camping throughout BC,

AB, and the Pacific Northwest, with Nanoose being a favourite spot. He and Debby also enjoyed several cruises together to Alaska, Mexico, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and through the Panama Canal.

In retirement, Mike and Debby created their own island retreat with a trailer in Qualicum Bay. There they spent many weekends "roughing it," exploring nearby towns, and welcoming friends and family to share their space.

While his ailments prevented further travel, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren-both at home and at the trailer. He loved watching them grow and listening to Bryce's stories about Scouting and Ninja/Parkour, as well as Lucy's adventures on horseback and on the softball field.

An incredibly loyal and loving husband, father, grampa, brother, son, uncle, friend, shipmate, mentor and boss, Mike will be fiercely missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation or the BC Lung Foundation.

Fair winds and following seas.