Michael John Edward Howard
April 26, 1934 – December 6, 2015
Passed away peacefully on Sunday December 6th, 2015 at the age of 81. Born in England on April 26th, 1934. Mike’s loving heart and infectious sense of humour will be greatly missed by all of his surviving friends and family. His spirit will live with us forever. Beloved and treasured soulmate of Joan Howard (nee Eckart) for 52 wonderful, precious years. Loving father of Karen, Mark and Paul (Julie), his treasured grandchildren Tyler, Brittany, Preston, William, Victoria, Andrew and Cassandra. Deeply missed by his sister-in-law Sheila Eckart and his nephew Malcolm (Arlene) and niece Susan (Dave), his sister-in-law Cath Howard in England as well as nephews Robert and David. Also missed by his brother-in-law Don Soisson and nephews Pat (Mary), Scott (Denise) and Craig in the USA.
Due to his passionate love of animals, in lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Furry Friends of Barrie would be greatly appreciated. Much appreciation to The Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre Cardiac Renal Unit staff for their tireless attention during Mike’s final days.
I’d like the memory of me to be a lasting one,
I'd like to leave a legacy of smiles when the day is gone,
Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I'd like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun,
Of happy memories that I leave with each and every one.
Donna McKnight
Posted on: Wednesday, December 9, 2015My condolences to Mike’s true love Joan and to his children Karen, Mark and Paul as well to his grandchildren and extended family members. A true family man who lived for the highlights of gathering with his wife and family on all occasions. A very honest and dependable man who looked for humor in life’s good times and trials of life. He will be missed.
May your rest in peace Mike.
Scott and Denise Soisson
Posted on: Friday, December 11, 2015The fabulous Uncle Mike (aka Gus Gus) will be greatly missed. However, we will think of him and smile and remember all of the wonderful times together. Uncle Mike and Auntie Joan always made the Great White North a true treasure to us. The Gusism’s (and there are many) will live on forever. You will be greatly missed Uncle Mike.
Don Soisson
Posted on: Saturday, December 12, 2015I first met Mike and Joan when they visited her sister and I in Walldorf, West Germany, back in the late ’60s. I found my new brother-in-law to be a truly remarkable character–a very out-going person never at a loss for words, but above all he would brighten your day. To wit: during his visit we went to the local German pub and Mike requested a draft with lime juice. The bartender’s response was largely one of bewilderment. A true Englishman, Mike could not understand why such a refreshing drink readily available in London was not available in Walldorf, and it was a shame, etc, etc. Somehow Mike survived this deprivation and we got through our beers okay. And looking back, this was Mike. Our get-togethers over the years…not as frequent as I would have liked…always brought a smile to my face. God bless him and keep him, he will be sorely missed.
Karen Howard
Posted on: Monday, December 21, 2015Dad, words cannot express how I feel. I miss you deeply. You were the funniest quick witted man I ever knew and made me laugh every time. And you loved Mom your soulmate with every ounce of your being. Keep them laughing in heaven. As Frank Sinatra said: “I did it my way”. And Dad you did. I love you and will keep you in my heart forever,
Your daughter KarenXO
Glenda Holden
Posted on: Sunday, January 10, 2016Bill and I just found out about Mike’s passing and our thoughts and prayers are with you and you family Joan. Mike is resting now and he will be missed.
Bill and Glenda Holden (Sandy Cove Neighbors)