GAREAU, C. Michael
Sgt (Retired) - RCMP
CSIS (Retired)
Thursday June 6, 2019, at the age of 71, Michael passed away peacefully, leaving a legacy of quiet generosity and endless acts of kindness for all who knew him.
Beloved husband of Martha, loving father of Tisha (John) and cherished stepfather to Leah (David), Lucas (Laura) Rebecca (Jeff), Claudine (Peter), Christine (late Nick), Angeline (Steve) and Caroline (Jay). Proud grandfather to Nolan and Jeremy, Benjamin and Rebecca, Jack, Elizabeth and Cameron.
Dear brother to Liz Oliver. Predeceased by his parents Rene Gareau and Fran (nee Sexton), as well as his brother Bill. Will be dearly remembered by Claudette, his in-laws, and many nieces and nephews.
Michael grew up in Montreal and took many of its delights along as his professional career brought him to Ottawa and around the world.
Michael always enjoyed a good dinner out and a fine bottle of wine; he could always be relied upon to spot a promising restaurant. He loved music and shared that love with his friends and family, introducing them to up and coming artists, as well as new and old jazz masters.
Always a science fiction fan, Michael was a connoisseur of science-fiction films - the more intellectual the better. He also had an enduring passion for Indigenous artwork.
Michael fondly remembered spending childhood vacations at the cottage in the Laurentians with his parents and siblings. Later, many wonderful family visits took place at the cottage, his home away from home. He deeply appreciated Canada’s many natural wonders.
Finally, C. Michael Gareau was a heroic animal-lover, keenly taking on the care of so many beloved family pets, including Micah, Mia, Elle, Maggie, Ebony, Elric, and often adding to the team, taking in other pets of friends and family in need of a stay, and some love. His generosity of spirit extended to everyone he knew, always going above and beyond – Michael wrote the definition of random acts of kindness.
Friends are invited to gather and celebrate Michael’s Life on Friday June 21, 2019 at the Hall of Colours of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. from 1 to 3 p.m. Interment to follow at the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery. In Memoriam donations to Sit With Me Shelter Dog Rescue (www.sitwithme.ca) or the Ottawa Humane Society (www.ottawahumane.ca) are appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Maureen and David Ireson
Caroline Farquhar
Michael was an extraordinary man full of love and caring for so many people. He was a huge support through my university days at Carleton and stoked my fierce love of travel. I was honored to call him my step-dad. He will be missed by so many. Michael, I love you, may you rest in infinite peace. Xoxoxo
Harry and Sherrill Southern
So many fond memories of a life lived to the fullest. May you rest in peace Mike knowing all the grand things you accomplished.
Our heartfelt condolences to Martha and family.
Dick & Mary Hawkshaw
It was a total pleasure having known and worked with Mike. He was a fine man and just a great guy.
So sorry for your loss.
With condolences to Martha and the family,
Dick & Mary Hawkshaw
Chilliwack, BC
.
Christine Farquhar -Kay
Michael was one of the greatest men I have ever known. His strength, generosity, kindness and absolute zest for life are memories I will have forever. He lovingly welcomed myself and my sisters into his life, and has been a guiding force for me since I was a little girl. I couldn’t have asked for a better, more caring Step Dad.
You will be missed so very much...and will be loved always. Xoxoxo
Ria Korteweg
I will remember Michael as a caring and hospitable man. My sincere condolences to Martha and the family.
David and Elizabeth Ayre
Mike was my supervisor, my mentor and my friend. I would like to express my condolences to all those who love him. Mike was a good man. Rest In Peace my friend.
Angie Farquhar Wilson
Michael was always such a kind and gentle man with a generous and loving soul. He was always supportive of me in everything I did. When Cameron was born, he was welcomed as a cherished grandson. He took joy in all of Cameron's accomplishments. Michael, you will be deeply missed by so many people you have touched. May you rest in infinite peace.
Angie Farquhar Wilson
Michael has been one of the biggest influences in my life. His kindness and generosity will always be something that I will remember. Michael has always been a source of support in everything I have done. When Cameron was born, he became a cherished grandpa.
Rest in peace Michael, May your wings take you wherever you choose to fly,
Al Hensler
Martha and family: Sincere condolences at the loss of Mike. He was a great colleague and he served his country well in RCMP and CSIS.
Our heartfelt condolences to Martha and all...
May your spirit soar, Michael...