Richard Michael Stone

STONE, Richard Michael
February 16, 1942 - January 13, 2026
Michael Stone was born on February 16, 1942, in Duncan, BC, the eldest child of Hector and Mary Stone. Mike was predeceased by his brother Robin and sister Joy. He grew up in the Cowichan Valley with a curiosity that could rarely be contained and a bicycle that carried him farther than his mother ever knew. Among his favourite adventures was riding across town to Maple Bay, where he would see if he could charm his way aboard a boat. Those early days sparked a lifelong love of the water-one that became a defining thread of his life.

Mike's passion for boating grew into a deep and enduring commitment. Over the years, he owned many sailboats and raced widely, including competing in twenty-three Swiftsures and three Victoria-to-Maui races. Eventually, the lure of cruising north to Alaska pushed him toward powerboats, and in 1990 he and his wife Barbara made the move. Together, they cruised on Branta II extensively between Seattle and Alaska, only selling it in 2025.

Mike spent his childhood around the family enterprise, Hillcrest Lumber Company, and upon high school graduation, worked his way up from the bottom. When Hillcrest closed in 1968, he pivoted quickly and went to work with Jim Whittome where he hustled to learn the commercial real estate business. He later joined BC Building Corporation as a lease negotiator, traveling the province in his dependable Toyota Corollas and building a reputation for integrity, practicality and hard work.

A devoted family man, Mike's greatest source of pride and joy was the life he built with Barbara whom he married in 1966. For nearly 60 years, they were a united and steadfast team. He was immensely proud of his son Brant, daughter Megan and deeply grateful for the loving relationships he shared with his daughter in law Jill and son in law Kyle. His grandchildren - Ella, Maren, Hillary, Cole and Logan - were the lights of his life. He was confident they would continue to grow into intelligent, interesting, wonderful people and he loved each of them more than words can fully express.

Mike passed away exactly as he wished - at home, with Barbara beside him and his family gathered around. Even in his final days, he was positive, gracious and ever thoughtful of others. He was profoundly thankful for Barbara's constant care and love, knowing fully that she kept him going. They were a team, unwavering and inseparable, until the very end.

He will be deeply missed
and lovingly remembered.

There will be a celebration of life on February 1 at Maple Bay Yacht Club from 1:30 - 4pm.