Obituary of Michael Bruce Innell

Passed away on the winter solstice, December 21, in Toronto, with his loved ones by his side. We are humbled by the outpouring of love and support from our friends and neighbours. Mike is survived by his partner Julie Charles, his daughter Jessica (Roisin), brother David (Jan), and niece Adriana (Trevor).  He is pre-deceased by his parents Harold and Norma.

Mike has loved being near the water since he was a boy on family trips to Wasaga Beach, Kahshe Lake, and the cottage on Harp Lake.  As a young man, he enjoyed the thrill of motorcycles and competed in off-road Enduro races. During summers working on a farm, he acquired the practical skills that gave him the ability to fix or maintain just about anything. 

A natural problem solver, he studied computer electronics at Ryerson and landed his first professional job when programming was as much physical as it was cerebral, operating punch cards. His career progressed in step with the transformation of the field, managing information technology and project delivery. He made lifelong friends along the way at Manulife Financial, RSA and through his consulting practice.

Mike always wanted to fly — as a kid, he joined the Royal Canadian Air Cadets’ 180 Mosquito Squadron. As an adult, that passion for flight translated into sailing. His quick mind, strength and leadership were most evident at the helm, whether navigating rough seas in The Atlantic or racing competitively around Lake Ontario. He was a mentor to his racing crew, took calculated risks, and always pushed the edge, ever so. Through recent winters in their 16-year relationship, Mike and Julie lived their dream of sailing in The Bahamas, wherever the wind took them.

Without a doubt, Mike’s greatest joy came from being a loving and supportive father to Jessica, living to see her discovering her own path and following her heart.

There will be an informal remembrance reception Thursday, January 5th at the Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville), from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Canadian Blood Services, any charity of your choice, or learn how to become a blood or stem cell donor at blood.ca.  Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

Fair winds and following seas, shipmate.

We have the watch.

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