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It is with profound sadness that the family of Michael Yorke Barrington announce his passing on September 26th at the age of 81. Michael told his last inappropriate joke surrounded by his beloved, cherished wife, and best friend of 50 years, Fionna, and his two daughters: Victoria, and Joanna. He will be lovingly remembered by his two sons-in-law, Michael, and Ray, as well as his grandchildren Theo (17), Lylah (6), and William (4), who all gave their Baba so much joy. Michael was also a devoted big brother to John Barrington (Tina), Joan Barrington, and Jenny McDougall.
Michael was born and raised in Toronto, growing up at the family cottage in the Kawarthas with his cousins and siblings who helped cement his love for the outdoors, fostering a passion for canoe tripping, scuba diving, duck shooting and the like.
Michael had a successful career running the third-generation family business, JW Barrington & Sons, producing renowned horse saddles and equestrian clothing. Following Barrington’s, he had a long and accomplished career in executive sales and consulting.
Together, Fionna and Michael built a rich life in north Toronto surrounded by many friends who soon became close family, and with whom they celebrated Thanksgivings, Christmas’s, and many other holidays for over 20 years.
They moved to Port Hope in 2011 where the allure of a small town and a gentler life was a love affair that Michael couldn’t resist. He quickly became enamored with the town, becoming a Board Member of the Capital Theatre, where he brought his skills and expertise to bear. Michael’s charm endeared him to many, with he and Fionna building a rich life and making lasting friendships full of debate, conversation, and many parties. He was forever grateful for the strong friendships he developed in his later years.
Unknown to most, Michael was a private mentor and friend to many, never missing an opportunity to help those in need, particularly young people. He had time for everyone, never judging, but instead providing a solid shoulder with sage, honest advice when it counted the most.
Michael was a man of many talents, with a passion and skill for woodworking – building impressive decks, docks, and everything in between at his home and cottage. He had unbound creativity, whether it be building an extraordinary fairy dolls house for his granddaughter or writing a magical book for his grandson. His love of language, science, and world affairs made him a true renaissance man.
Michael was also a voracious reader, with a near encyclopedic level of general knowledge which he often kept hidden until the situation warranted. Everyone always wanted to be on his team in family game night as he was able to beat anyone, at any time, at any crossword, often leaving those around him in the dust.
Family was the most important thing to Michael and, as he would often say, his proudest accomplishment. His happiest times were loud family dinners filled with chaos, laughter, wonderful meals, and top-shelf whiskey to finish. His dry sense of humour was renowned by all who knew him, finding the precise moment to deliver a zinger that set the room alight.
Michael battled his fifth and final cancer with grace, dignity, and humour to the end. He spent his final days at Ed’s House, an extraordinary hospice in Cobourg, ON, where the nursing staff were second to none. Words cannot express our gratitude for the care and compassion they showed us all, including our Airedale Winnie. Our deepest thanks also go to Dr. Francesco Mulé, who provided unsurpassed care and guided the whole family through Michael’s last journey.
Visitation will be held at MacCoubrey Funeral Home 30 King St. E., Cobourg, Ontario, on Wednesday October 6th between 2-5 p.m. A private family celebration will follow at a later date. We ask that anyone attending the visitation to please ensure they are fully vaccinated. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
So sad to hear of Michaels passing. While its a long time since I last met Michael he was a very memorable person. My thoughts are with Fiona and all the Barrington family members at this sad time. Ed and Mary would be so proud of the life he led. I feel privileged to have been part of that family for a short time.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
We were saddened to hear of your loss of Michael. Knowing Vicki so well for 25 years and more, we also know of the fineness of her Dad. Losing him cannot be easy. Fionna, we are sorry for your loss of your life's partner, and pleased for you that you were able to find such good medical and hospice care for him in his decline. Wishing all the Barringtons our very best, Sincerely, Steve, Randal and Maridene Johnston
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Dearest Jo, Fionna and Tor, I am heartsick to hear this terribly sad news. I don't have to tell you how wonderful your Dad/husband was, but I will say he had an uncanny knack of making you feel instantly at home, cared for and valued. A rare gift. I have countless fond memories of my talks with him, and his great, dry sense of humour. I am reminded of his stack of library books, his fearlessness in helping anyone in need - particularly with the most grim of tasks. His penchant for the sharpest of knives and his hollering of threats when the knife sharpener's bell rang out on the street. (That will always bring a smile). He was steady, and calm - could pick the most horrific looking winged monster insects in his bare hands to showcase its 'beauty'. I delighted in him ever so much, he was a true character in all the best ways. My heart breaks for all of you, he was such a great, great Dad. If there is any truth to the tales, then surely he and Bailey are reunited once more, lakeside on a sunny afternoon. Hoping all of your special memories bring you comfort in the months to come. There is little doubt, that Michael Barrington's memory, is indeed a blessing to all. Sending you all my love, comfort and care, Heidi
Our deepest sympathies to your family. Michael was a loving person and his light-hearted sense of humour will be missed.
We are so sorry to hear of Michael's passing. A very bright light has gone out of our community. We will miss him!
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Please accept our warmest condolences. We are truly sorry for your loss.
To Fiona, Joanna and Victoria, When your eyes freeze behind the grey window,and the ghost of life gets into you.May a flockof colours, Indigo,red,green and azure blue, come to awaken in you, a meadom of delight. Shall never forget the dark nights in Bon Echo and Michael terrifying the children and aldults. Never forgotten
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Michaels' passing has left a huge void in our hearts. Having spoken to the greater community in Port Hope and Cobourg, we know it is not just us who are heartbroken. He was a man of honour and integrity with a wicked sense of humour. We were so privileged to be able to call him (and family) true friends. We miss him more than we can say.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
So sorry to hear of Michael's passing. Happy memories at holiday get togethers and talks in his workshop where he would show me his latest project or new gadget. Playing up the curmudgeon but you just knew he was happiest with a big group celebrating a holiday or family milestone. Glad that he completed that fairy doll house and it will be one more cherished memory for us to remember him by. Rest easy Michael
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Dear Fiona, Joanna and Victoria. I was very fond of Micheal, he had a wicked sense of humor and enjoyed our talks that we had. I always enjoyed talking and hearing his stories. He will be missed.
I'm sp sprry to hear of your loss of a brother and a friend. I hope you're comfortted by knowing that he had a peaceful end and good care and leaves a loving family who will always remember him with love and admiration. Mona jaspan
I am so glad to have known Michael and to have shared in the laughs he brought with him. He loved his family, he loved people, he loved having discussions. He knew just about everything. He was a tall, beautiful man, an old school gentleman. I send his family my love and deepest condolences. I will miss him.
I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends. I only met Michael once but his enthusiasm for life impressed me. Bonnie Eccles-friend of Joan
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
The Greek poet Aeschylus said “We must wait until the evening to judge how good the day has been” and by this measure Michael had a very good life indeed. He was revered, appreciated, liked and respected by all who met him. In Ireland they’d say we’ll not see his like again ….that’s how special our friend Michael was - we shall miss, but not forget him. G’bye Michael………. Gerry, Ladka, Simone, Danielle & Derek
I count myself lucky to have so many wonderful memories of uncle Michael. I can still remember him teaching me how to paddle a canoe and catch a fish at the cottage. When my father passed away before my wedding, Michael stepped up and delivered an amazing "father of the bride" speech. In classic Michael fashion, as a fantastic story teller, he had the crowd roaring with laughter and hanging on every word. He will be greatly missed. Much love, Ally xox.
Sending deepest condolences to Michael’s family. Jenny has shared wonderful stories of her much-loved brother over the years and he will be truly missed. ❤️
Deepest condolences to you all. What a beautiful tribute to a true one-of-a-kind. I have vivid, fond memories of Mr. B teasing me constantly (but secretly loving me, despite the denials), watching A Christmas Carol (in black and white, never in colour, that would be a true abomination), and the absolute joy he exuded on Jo and Ray’s wedding day, as he reminded me not to “screw up” as MC, and shortly after being the most sincere with his gratitude and praise of a job well done. He was such a character, and I am certain there will be so many cherished memories shared which I am sure will bring comfort. Love to all xo
Sincerest condolences to the Barrington family from Marni and Brian, frequent and grateful guests at Movanagher, where the tradition of warm gatherings of family and friends continues.
I am so so sorry to hear of Michael’s passing. He was truly one in a million… always pretending to be a little scary but actually so full of kindness and love. He was so obviously a wonderful father and grandfather; I remember the joy and pride he showed with his beautiful “doll’s house”. He will certainly be missed but is likely already telling jokes wherever he might be! Lots of love and condolences to you all, Chris ❤️❤️❤️
The sound of Uncle Michael’s voice getting lower as he whispered the final words of “The Hook” around many a campfire will be something I will remember for all of my years to come. My childhood memories are full of Uncle Michael at the cottage, at Bon Echo, and at so many Chrissy dinners, tuxedo’d and laughing. A true renaissance man with the wit, wisdom and intellect that implies, he will be so missed. With all of our love, Dano & Mila
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
To Fionna, Jo and family We were sadden with the news of Michael’s passing. It’s difficult to know what to say just now except that you’re thought of in sympathy and friendship. Sincerely Robin & Donna Cornwell