Obituary of Michael Frederick Jarvis

January 25, 1953 - July 21, 2025

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Michael at the age of 72.

Mike leaves behind his devoted wife of more than fifty years, Lise (Ouellette), his dear daughter Julie (Richard St-Jacques), and his adored grandchildren Emily and Alexander.  Predeceased by his parents Fred and Jeannine Jarvis and his brother Ron. Survived by his sister Brenda (Gary Christopher.)  Fondly remembered by several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews and many friends.

Mike loved to travel and found joy in simple moments like watching movies, hockey games, listening to music, laughing at stories from the good old days and spending time with family and friends. He especially loved family gatherings at his beloved cottage as well as slow pontoon rides around the lake, our famous family Saturday night steak dinners, and playing euchre with his favorite partner, Brenda.  You could also find him puttering in the garage fixing this and that just like his father used to do.  Mike also cherished his life-long friends including those he made in the construction industry.

After a major heart attack in 2012, Mike received a heart transplant that gave him a second chance at life which he enjoyed to the fullest.  In the last few years, Parkinson's and Dementia began to slowly take him from us and eventually limited his activities which kept us close to home.  Over the last few years, although his heart was strong, his health deteriorated and after many hospital stays, recovery proved to be too challenging for his body. Mike passed away peacefully at home surrounded by much love.

Special thanks to awesome neighbours, The Kooimans, and cottage cousins and special friends, Sue and Tom, for their tireless help and support over the years.

Words cannot express our gratitude to Dr. Shamim for his dedication, compassion and kindness; such a comforting effect that helped ease Mike’s end of life journey.

The family also extends heartfelt thanks to the many medical professionals at the Queensway Carleton Hospital where he was well cared for, The Ottawa Heart Institute for their continuous care over the last twelve years, and more recently the wonderful ViVA Barrhaven Retirement Community Management Teams and staff. We would like to sincerely thank all the wonderful nurses, PSWs and caregivers, who looked after Mike, day and night. 

In honoring Mike’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. We invite you to raise a glass in Mike’s honour and share a story or two about the connection he made with you. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In memoriam, donations can be made to The Parkinson's Foundation of Canada, the Dementia Society or The Ottawa Heart Institute.