Born in Montreal, very suddenly passed away on Sunday, May 27th in Ottawa. A brother to so many officers and members of the CAF and respected colleague to many in the defence industry. He was very proud of his Irish roots, but most of all, to have had the honor to wear the uniform of the Royal Canadian Navy. Always ready with a song, a quote from Churchill or JFK, or his self-deprecating humor, he was a man among men and a friend to so many, recognized by his broad smile, and the sparkle in his eye.
He leaves to mourn the love of his life, his wife and best friend, Marika (nee Versailles), his daughter Erin Patricia, his son Michael Darcy, his stepchildren Cody-Anna, James, and Holly Orlando. Also, his sisters Patricia McEntee-Dunne (Patrick), Maureen McEntee-Biggs (Alan) and Catherine (Danny). His nephews, Sean and Liam Dunne, Peter and Ewan Biggs. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Michael and Catherine (nee Rooney).
Friends and family are invited to visit Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery & Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Saturday, June 8th at 12:00PM, until time of a Funeral Service at 2:00 PM. Burial to follow at 3:00 PM in the National Military Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers a donation to a charity of your choice in Mike’s honor would be appreciated.
Mike, sweetheart, dad, the moment that you died, our hearts split in two. One side filled with memories, the other died with you. Remembering you will be easy, we will do it every day, but missing you is a heartache that will never go away. Rest easy my love, watch over us until we see you again in the Fields of Athenry.
Digital Guestbook
Andreas Kothleitner aka “Bic”
Lcdr Bill Ansell
Mac
You are going away too soon my friend. I will forever miss your humour, smile and wit. My deepest condolences to Marina, Erin, Michael and family. Fair Winds...
Howie Smith
Mike so very sad to learn of this news - my prayers and thoughts are with your family and many friends. I was blessed to serve with you (FRA) and hope that when we meet next I can be on your Boarding Party Team!
LCdr Bill Ansell
My sincerest condolences to you Malika, Mike’s rock, and to Erin and Michael. I was numbed when I heard, knowing we would never have another loud debate over nothing but a pint. An honourable and joy filled man. We will miss him.
Kevin Laing, OMM CD Capt(N) (Ret’d)
Dear Mike and family,
I’m so shocked and saddened to learn of Mike’s passing. I first met Mike in my second career when he was assuming duties in Naval Requirements. There was an instant connection between us as I too had been the Canadian exchange officer at COMOPTEVFOR in Va Beach. In business, I was struck by his energy, enthusiasm and system acquisition acumen for getting the best for the Navy. His outgoing and engaging personality made him an ideal participant in defence acquisition circles. He was a fine professional sailor and business associate, and a good friend. May he Rest In Peace and you take comfort in your memories of him. Yours Aye!
Lena Rickert and Daniel Beaulac
You will be missed by everyone who know you. I will never forget seeing you and Marika together and how happy you were with her. Rest in peace knowing that we will all be here for her on this side.
CPO2 (RET'D) Wayne Tansley
It is with great sadness, that I learned of the passing of a friend, shipmate, sailor and leader. Mike and I shared many unique expericences together. I remember the day he launched his first SM2, it was a journey we both enjoyed. I can remember his love of all things Irish and we shared many a pint as he sang his beloved ballads. I sent my sincerest condolances to his family and children. Rest in peace Sir, fair winds and following seas, until we meet again.
Jeff Hamilton
A week has gone by and I still cannot believe this has happened. Mike, I’ll forever cherish our friendship and will miss you greatly. Deb and I extend our deepest regrets and condolences to Marika, Michael, Erin and close family and friends alike. Mike was a superbly loyal friend and first/rate naval officer. May you eternally Rest In Peace.
David Trudeau
Very sorry to hear about Mac's passing. Rest in peace shipmate.
Patricia McEntee-Dunne
Taken far too young, may the gentle comfort of happy memories help ease the pain of all our family and friends.
My MARS Officer training Brother, my Shipmate, my Roommate, my Poet, my Personal Irish Vocalist, my Tragically Hipster, my Partner In Crime, my Montreal Canadians Foe, and most of all my Friend...thank you, you helped me be a better Officer, Friend, and Person all while making me laugh and learn about life. Our late night discussions and debates were times I will always remember, you were as Irish as Irish could be and I loved that about you...pride and respect always my Brother. I’ll see you on the other side my Friend, I look forward to seeing that twinkle and hearing your voice. Rest and peace always.
Marika and Mikey Jr., I’m here to support in anyway possible at anytime. Our home is always your home. You’re in our family’s thoughts and prayers...
Andreas, aka “Bic”, sends...