Michael Hall Caine, aged 75, passed away on July 22, 2024, with his beloved wife Barbara by his side. He leaves behind a loving family, including his children, Matt (Alexandra), Natalie (Michalis Famelis), and Travis (Kara Gauthier), from his first marriage to Annette Caine; as well as his stepchildren, Jennifer Sampson (Hank) and the late Sean Burton. He will be missed greatly by his grandchildren, Sydney and Yuri. He is predeceased by his parents, Jean and Howard; and his sister Pamela. Michael was a second-generation broadcaster who continued his family's legacy with the Oakville based radio station, CHWO ("the White Oaks station"). In 1974, he founded CJMR, the first station licensed to the newly incorporated city of Mississauga, which later expanded to multicultural programming in 15 languages, embodying the family's dedication to community service. In 2000, he fulfilled a personal ambition by launching AM740, in Toronto, catering to the 50+ audience, and creating JOY 1250, the first Christian radio station in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area. His passion for broadcasting, combined with a sense of fun, made him a remarkable leader in the industry. Known for his keen sense of humour and outgoing nature, Michael was a natural people person who made everyone feel valued. He was often called upon to give speeches and toasts honouring loved ones. He enjoyed entertaining, hosting gatherings at home with Barbara and Nelson, their family dog. Michael loved watching sports, especially the Jays and Tiger-Cats, and was an avid reader. He cherished quiet mornings on his back porch with a newspaper or a good book. Michael's passion for music was evident in all aspects of his life. As a young man, he performed folk music with his best friend, Clint Bowman, and continued to share his love of music with his children and friends. He played piano and guitar, sang in the church choir, and often found solace in music's ability to express what words could not. Michael was a man of faith, actively involved in St. Jude's Anglican Church, where he organized the Celebration of the Arts series, and volunteered in the community. Among his many accolades, he was particularly proud of receiving the Golden Jubilee Medal, in honour of Queen Elizabeth II's 50th anniversary on the throne. The world feels less vibrant without Michael Caine, a man who embodied strength, optimism, dignity and courage throughout his life. His memory will be cherished through simple pleasures-sunflowers, pizzas, good conversations, and the music of Kenny Loggins, James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot, Frank Sinatra, and The Beatles. Above all, Michael's legacy will live on in the love and laughter he shared with all who knew him. A service celebrating Michael's life will be held at St. Jude's Anglican Church, 160 William Street, Oakville, at 2 p.m. on Friday, September 6, 2024. Donations in memory of Michael can be made to the Joy Foundation, through the Oakville Community Foundation. Online condolences at
www.koprivataylor.com.
Published by The Globe and Mail from Aug. 3 to Aug. 7, 2024.