February 13, 2019
We are sad to announce that Mike passed away peacefully at Langley Lodge on February 13, 2019, at the age of 83. He was born in the Kootenays but moved to Christchurch, New Zealand around the age of 14 and finished his education there attaining a B.Sc. in geology. He then returned to Canada and worked for many years as an exploration geologist in various parts of B.C., the Yukon and the N.W.T. After being diagnosed with celiac disease he changed careers in midlife and became a well respected realtor in the Fraser Valley. He always had a special affinity with New Zealand. After discovering the ocean there he became a lifeguard at one of the surfing beaches in Christchurch. We often heard the story how he biked a number of miles to and fro from his home to Waimairi Beach, many times into a headwind. When he met a kiwi girl in Vancouver in 1966 he didn't waste much time in marrying her. He enjoyed many trips back to New Zealand to reconnect with old friends, while Joy could visit family. Unfortunately for Mike in recent years he battled with dementia and was no longer the man he once was.
He is predeceased by his mother, father and older brother Bill. Survived by his loving wife Joy; loved sons, Bruce (Jing) and Gary, and Gary's daughter Sophia; his brother, Martin, and family all in the San Francisco area. Also survived by extended family and long time friends both here and in New Zealand.
Mike was a true gentleman, a story teller and a quick wit. He requested no service and no fuss! A gathering will be held at a later date to remember Mike. The family extends their thanks and gratitude for the wonderful care he received at Langley Lodge the past four months.
Condolences to the family may be sent to joystadnyk@telus.net Donations may be given in his name to the S.P.C.A. or the Alzheimer Society of BC.
Gone but never forgotten.