Michael (Mick) David Mahony died peacefully on the evening of Wednesday March 9, 2016 at Vancouver General Hospital.

He is survived by his wife Carol May; his children Heather May (Dan) and Colin Raymond (Sue); brother Raymond (Judy); nephew Tim (Charity); his beloved grandchildren, Ewan, Ben, Kye and Emily; cousins Shirley, Maureen and Yvonne, Audrey and Derek, and their families.

Born July 6, 1943 in London, England of Irish parents Danny and Pat, Mick followed in his father’s footsteps as an accountant. He began his world travels in 1969, coming to Vancouver to work in an accounting firm. Here he discovered skiing and the wide open spaces of Canada. After his marriage to his Canadian wife, Mick became interested in Hospital Administration through the mentorship of Ed Desjardin of GFStrong Rehab. Centre. This began a most interesting career in many facilities in B.C. and elsewhere: BC Health Association, Shaughnessy Hospital, BC Cancer Agency, The Arthritis Centre, UBC, among others, interim administration consultancy, and a rehab project in Ghangzhou, China.

In both his work and in his personal life, Mick focused on really listening to and respecting everyone, lending his English sense of humour to every situation, and patiently bringing people into harmony with each other. He focused not on himself, but in becoming interested in others. This made him a sensitive problem-solver, and space-maker for others to shine. His family and many friends over the world have become utterly devoted to him.

In his retirement, Mick continued his love of travel, competing with his brother Ray for how many countries visited! He delighted in his family life, camping and playing with his children and grandchildren, especially on Hornby Island. There he found a warm community.

After a wonderful journey to Ecuador and Peru, it was a surprise for him to be diagnosed with Leukaemia. Now began his final journey, a year of much happiness as well as struggle. Many friends supported him through his illness, including his expert and caring medical team, family and admirers from far and wide. He credited this support for how well he managed to exceed expectations. Into his final day, he was peaceful. All who knew him are grateful for this.

If you would like to offer a gift to honour Mick’s life, please consider making a blood donation to Canadian Blood Services. Transfusions of blood saved his life over and over, and gave him the chance to enjoy an extra year filled with happy experiences. In lieu of flowers, donations sent to VGH Foundation are appreciated.