It is with profound sadness that the family of Michael Clement Birnie announces his death on August 8, 2017 at the age of 61 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul Birnie and Jeanne (Kinney) Birnie and his brother, John Birnie. He is survived and was deeply adored by his wife, Susan (Larmer) Birnie and his step-son, Noah Perron; his brother Scot Birnie and his wife, Karen and their sons, John and David of Toronto: his brother-in-law, Geoffrey Larmer and his wife, Nancy and their children, McKay, Ronan, Kennedy and Harrison and his beloved shih-tzu's, Montana and Tiki and his cat, Belle. Michael practiced insurance law in the City of North Bay for 32 years. He personally cared and fought vigorously for each and every client no matter the size or importance of the case. He conducted himself with the utmost integrity and decorum both in and out of the courtroom. He worked tirelessly every day of the year with the exception of Christmas and Super Bowl Sunday. He was an avid boater and loved the summers on Lake Nipissing. He was an unwavering fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He cherished his vacations where he could be found in the sun devouring spy novels. He was an extremely private man but loved to laugh and share war stories with his close friends and colleagues. He was a selfless and honourable gentleman and there is little doubt that his spirit will live on in his family, friends and those who knew and loved him.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the compassionate and loving care received from the doctors and staff of St Michael's Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital and the North Bay Regional Health Centre. A special thank you to Dr. Brian Shaw, Dr. Katie Shaw and the angelic nurses and staff of C-3 at the North Bay Regional Health Centre who went above and beyond in their support of Michael throughout his illness.
Friends are invited to share their memories with Michael’s family at Martyn Funeral Home on Sunday afternoon and evening from 2- 4 & 7 – 9 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Pro Cathedral at 10:00am Monday August 14, 2017. Cremation will follow. If you would like to honor Michaels’s memory with a donation please consider the Palliative Care Unit of North Bay Regional Health Centre, the Ontario Brain Tumor Foundation, or the North Bay Food Bank.