Michael George Redmond passed suddenly at Seniors’ Health Centre in North York on Monday, August 16, 2021. He was 81 years of age. Son of the late Ruth and Harris Redmond, Michael is survived by his sister Merlyn Buller of North Carolina, and his adoptive family of Robert McKinlay and Karen Hammond, both of Toronto.
Charismatic and charming with a robust sense of humour, Michael attracted friends wherever he went. He greatly treasured his independence and with ingenuity adapted the world around him to accommodate many physical challenges resulting from his 25 years living with Parkinson’s Disease.
Michael worked in the book publishing industry for many decades and valued his role as librarian at Seniors’ Health Centre.
Following cremation, a private graveside service will be held in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bolton.
Condolences may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Margaret Beaumont
My sincere sympathy and condolences to Michael’s family. He was my neighbour for many years prior to him moving into the retirement residence. I greatly admired Michael and the fortitude and courage he showed during the many years of his illness. I never heard him complain, he simply ‘got on with it’ and I know it wasn’t easy for him. He was very independent and loved to be taken out for coffee and do a bit of shopping. I will miss him a great deal and remember him always with pleasure.
Margaret
Heather Gray
Dear Mike, I was so sorry to hear of your passing last Monday. When my mother,
Audrey, married your uncle Harry in 1972, we inherited each other as cousins
and remained friends ever since. I especially enjoyed your trips to Saint John and
the wonderful photos you took – you saw details that others often missed. Your
long phone conversations were fun and insightful, especially during election times.
Whatever would you think of the recent premature election call?
I appreciated your wit and candor but, mostly, your well-read knowledge of just
about any subject. You were an intelligent, warm, comical and thoughtful guy and
you will be missed but remembered with love. Rest peacefully, Michael.
Nancy Griffin m
I am grateful that my children were told of his passing. His was a valiant life. He was an usher at our wedding and a constant and loyal friend
After that, While my husband was ill before his death Mike called him every Sunday, they talked and laughed and reminiscing about the good old publishing days.
Nancy Griffin Mazeika
So sad that Mike is gone. He was an usher at our wedding and a great and loyal friend after that. While my husband Al was ill Mike called every Sunday, something Al looked forward to. They would go on and on about the good old days in publishing. Mike!s parents lived in our apartment building and we often had lovely visits with Mike and them. Catherine , John, Michael and I send condolences and appreciation to Robert and Karen. Peace be with Mike
Rodrick K. MacKinnon
It is so sad to learn of Mike’s passing. He was a warm and long time friend, meeting first on the East Coast at Al & Nancy’s wedding, and then for many years on the West Coast. Whenever Mike was in town (Vancouver) we would meet and laugh, at ourselves and the world. On one occasion he was with us for Hallowe’en and we went Trick n’ Treating with our very young son Robbie. It was hard to tell who had the most fun, Robbie or Mike. Another time much later, my wife, Mimi, accompanied me to Toronto on a business trip and, while I was businessing, Mike and Mimi ranged all over Toronto, and Toronto Island, role playing, laughing and having a ball together. So many memories of an Old Friend and a life well lived.
Go gently into the good night Michael, and know that you friends all loved and will miss you.