Michael John Day

Michael (Mike) John Day, “Running Pa”, passed away peacefully at Queensway Carleton Hospital on November 19th, 2024 with many family members by his side. Much loved husband of Anne-Marie Curry, father of Kevin, Michael (Ellen Twyman), Christina, Jessica (Francis Ethier) and Leah (Michael Wheeler), and good friend to Pat Leroux. Running Pa to his grandchildren – Matthew (Kienna), James, Kieran (Michelle), Michael (Catherine), Owen, Natalie (Sam), Liam, Mary, Jenevieve, Justin, Sébastien, Clementine and his great grandchildren - Madeleine, and Charles. Mike was predeceased by his first wife, Mary (1986), and his eldest child, Erin (2019). Born in London, UK to Philip Day and Nellie Day (née Ambridge) , Mike emigrated to Canada in the 1950s after completing service with the Royal Air Force. In Canada, Michael enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force where he remained until 1966 when he subsequently transferred to the Department of Transport at the Ottawa Airport where he worked until his well-deserved retirement.

Running Pa was an avid athlete and ran for Finchley Harriers in England and the Ottawa Valley Track Club in Ottawa. He was a founding member of the Ottawa Orienteering Club, a past President of Orienteering Canada and a member of the Canadian Orienteering team in the early 1970s. Mike dabbled in Old Timers Rugby and returned to running focusing on road races. Running Pa continued to appear in road races into his 90th year and was a huge fan of athletic competitions.

Dad loved to read, was a keen traveller (especially in Europe), enjoyed most food, red wine, cold beer, and joining every party. He was a bon vivant but was happiest amidst a large family gathering. He will be missed dearly by family for his quiet steadfast support and by friends for his gregarious nature. He was one of a kind and will be sorely missed. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, December 2, 2024, between 2 pm and 5 pm, at Kichesippi Beer Co. (2265 Robertson Road, Bells Corners). Dad’s desire was to have a true Celebration of Life – wear what you want, share a beverage and/or a story if you wish. Running Pa wanted his Celebration of Life to be a party, one he would regret to miss but would be happy to start. 

Those wishing to make a donation in Mike’s memory are invited to contribute to the Queensway Carleton Hospital or a charity of your choice.