Michael (James Michael) O’Toole passed away after an extended illness on Thursday Aug 4, 2022 at the age of 76 with family by his side.  Born in Atholville/Campbellton, New Brunswick June 11, 1946, he was the eldest son of 11 children born to the late Raymond and Gladys O’Toole. 

 

After high school he worked briefly in Toronto, Manitouwadge, and then on to Marathon, Ontario where he settled, married and started his family.  He received a millwright ticket while working at the local pulp mill (1965-1980).  In 1980 he moved his family to The Pas and worked until he retired in 2003 from the pulp and paper industry.

 

Mike spent much of his time outdoors, walking, taking photos, travelling, and fishing.  He enjoyed camping at Iskwasum.  His love of nature inspired his paintings which have won him many awards and hang in many businesses and homes.  He spent many hours painting and his art and murals can be seen around town and throughout Northern Manitoba.  Mike was always busy doing and trying something new, from taxidermy, wood working, carving, playing guitar and singing.  He treasured spending time with family and friends.  One of Mike’s great joys was inspiring his children and later his grandchildren through hockey.  He was an instrumental figure at the rink, whether coaching, carpooling or watching his sons play hockey.  His grandchildren have continued on with the tradition and he loved to encourage them and watch them play in person and online.

 

Mike will be greatly missed and forever loved by his wife of 55 years, Barbara, his 2 children Jim (Sandra) and John (Kim) of The Pas.  He also leaves behind 5 grandchildren, Alexa, Rowan, Rachel, Jessica and Matt O’Toole.  Sisters - Marquita, Kathleen (Bob), Peggy (Terry) and Colleen (Kim).  Brothers - Steven (Barb), Roydon, Tommy (Dianne), Bob and Raymond O’Toole.  Sister/Brother in-law - Marlene (Len), Norman (Joyce).  As well as many nieces and nephews.

 

Mike was predeceased by his daughter Heather, brother Brian, parents Raymond and Gladys O’Toole, father/mother in-law John and Gladys Greene, brother in-law Clayton McKinley and his loving dog and best friend of 12 years, Koda.

This is a story about our dad. 

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/michael-otoole-the-pas-1.4612125

In keeping with Mikes wishes, cremation has taken place and burial will be at a later date.

Donations to either Cancer Care Manitoba, The Pas Health Complex Foundation or Opasquia Trails Grace Lake Boardwalk would be appreciated by Mike’s family.