Michael Barry Blackmore, age 75, of Ottawa, ON, passed away on February 19, 2025. He was born on July 10, 1949, in Lefroy, Ontario, to Marietta (née Rooks) and Francis Patrick James Blackmore. He spent his childhood in North Bay, Ontario and eventually settled with his family in Ottawa in 1974.
Michael is survived by his cherished wife of 55 years, Joady Blackmore, his children Jennifer Player, Pamela Dover (Mike), and Francis Blackmore (Jennifer). He also leaves behind five adoring grandchildren: Francis (Emma), Aaron, Brianna, Alex, and Evan and two great-grandchildren Branson and Madeline. Additionally, he is survived by his sisters Valerie Caven, Marlaine Bywater, Marita Valyear, Louise Cantin, Maureen Stefanelli, and Vicky Pardy. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Virginia Parks. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Michael was known for his Irish heritage, being the life of the party, and his love of Guinness. He had a deep-seated love of music and history books, with favourites including traditional Celtic music, The Beatles, and Great Big Sea.
The ocean had a special allure for him, and he felt at peace listening to the waves, watching the birds, and enjoying the slower pace it offered.
Michael was caring and generous with his family. He had a quirky sense of humour, and sometimes you had to know him to really get the joke. He enjoyed many sports and was passionate about baseball (Blue Jays), football (Buffalo Bills), hockey (Toronto Maple Leafs), golf, and darts. He was an avid collector of sports memorabilia. He also enjoyed gardening and cooking, always generous with the fruits of his labour. He was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose and volunteered regularly, making meals, with “Blackmore Fish and Chip Night” selling out every week. Lastly, he was proud of his time as a Cable Splicer at Bell Canada, where he worked for 32 years.
Memorial Service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at Pinecrest Remembrance Chapel, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa, Ontario. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Diabetes Canada or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Online condolences may be made at colefuneralservices.com.