Michael was born in Calgary on July 22, 1923. The son of the late Major General L. F. Page and of Rose Page, predeceased by his loving wife of 69 years Sheila, his youngest son Michael Peter and sister P. K. Page Irwin. Survived by his children Wendy and Timothy, three grandchildren Evan, Jessica and Matthew and ten grandchildren.
Upon graduation from Rothesay Collegiate, New Brunswick, in 1941, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy as a Midshipman serving at sea in the North Atlantic and around the British Islands. After VE Day, he volunteered for the Pacific and was trained as an Observer in Canada’s Fleet Air Force. He served in Canadian aircraft carriers Warrior and Magnificent and commanded VS881 and the 18th Carrier Air Group.
After staff courses, he served in various capacities and upon unification, he returned to the sea and commanded the Canadian Destroyers Cayuga and St. Laurent. He retired from the Royal Canadian Navy after 30 years of service, his last appointment being as the Director of Studies at the Canadian Forces Staff College in Toronto.
Upon return to civilian life, he joined Pemberton Holmes in Victoria, where he worked for 10 years. During and for years after, he volunteered his time to the Canadian Cancer Society and the local SPCA in Victoria.
He was a charter member of the Group of 12 at the Ardmore Golf Course, and a faithful member of the Heavenly Dog Walking Group of Windsor Park. A cheery man who enjoyed life and the people with whom he came into contact.
No Service by request.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Naval Officers Association of Canada Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 2402, main postal outlet, 349 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, B.C., V6B 3W7.
Condolences and memories may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Tim & Gina Slater
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Janice LeBlanc On behalf of my father Jim Cumming and ourselves, we send our deepest condolences! My parents and yours had been dear friends for years. We rented your house on Woodley during one posting, and my Dad and Mike played golf together with the group of 12 for years. I had just recently contacted Mike with a holiday message and new years’ greeting from my father, filling him in on my fathers’ status. He was so upbeat and bright, and sent me a wonderful reply that I will always remember, calling me the cornerstone of our family to take such care of my father. We were so saddened to hear of his passing. He was such a lovely man, and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Janice & Dan LeBlanc, and Jim Cumming
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Michael Rankin Very sorry to learn of the death of dear Mike, a dear old friend of my family, whom I first met in the 1940’s. He was truly special, a great guy, so charming and warm- hearted, a real delight to be with. I will miss him.
My deepest sympathies to all in his family.Michael Rankin
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John Bodnar Saddened to hear of Michael’s passing. A lovely man who loved to share life’s stories.
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Théa Nation Dearest Wendy and Tim, sheesh, so soon after your mummy – thinking of you both and holding you in my heart. Because there is no service Wendy could you contact me via my email ddorotheaon@gmail please when the dust has settled. I need to get through to both you and Tim – love and hugs xxx théa
A long life well lived by a dignified man with a warm heart and a wonderful sense of humour. “Mike” was a dear lifelong friend and cohort of my father, Tony Slater. Their shared experiences through wartime, naval life, families and retirement was retold and enjoyed many times at parties, family gatherings and ceremonies. We will miss his great wit and enaging spirit.
Our thoughts and best wishes to Wendy and Tim, their partners and families, in this difficult time.
…..To absent friends…
Tim and Gina Slater