Michael James Harley

Dr. Michael Harley, son of James and Alice Harley (both predeceased), devoted husband of Annie Harley for 51 years, loving father of James (Melissa), Hugh (Jill), Clare (Matt), and Leo, and proud grandfather to Maxwell, Meredith, Megan, Sarah, Peter and John, passed peacefully on October 4, 2016.

Mike was born in 1938 to James Harley, a chauffeur and caretaker, and to Alice Harley, a housekeeper. He loved riding horses and dreamt of becoming a jockey. He attended the Royal Naval College then went to Oxford and King's College Medical School. While doing his residency at Stoke Mandeville he met a nurse, Annie Gillman, who he shortly married and started a family.

Dr. Michael Harley served in the Royal British Navy for 21 years reaching the senior officer rank of Surgeon Commander (Ophthalmologist). He travelled the world and developed a love of languages. His Naval term included a three year station with his family on the Mediterranean island of Malta. An avid Polo player he enjoyed many chukkers while playing for the Navy.

In 1980, Dr. Michael Harley moved with his family to Winnipeg, where he established a long term Eye Doctor practice in the North End. Mike eagerly took up sailing in Lake Winnipeg, playing Polo at Bird's Hill Park, while still playing both squash and golf. Family and friends are endeared on how Mike encouraged others to share in his many pursuits. Wonderful memories sailing on the lake, or sharing stories and laughter while playing golf.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 24, 2016 at 10:00 am at Thomson "In the Park" Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard.

The family greatly appreciates the care and attention that the Geriatric Dementia unit at Seven Oaks provided. Some of the nurses who cared for Mike where former patients and openly cherished how gentle he was as their doctor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson's Canada at www.parkinson.ca