Obituary of Michael John Melanson

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Michael John Melanson, 3 June 1958 - 5 February 2024, loving husband, dad, grandad, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, friend, handyman, jack (of most trades), entertainer and so many other things to so many people. No wonder the hole left in our hearts feels so big. Even though his last few years were spent fighting various auto immune diseases, Mike took great pride in taking care of his family, right until the end.

Mike’s career began when he joined the Canadian Armed Forces at 17, doing his basic training in Cornwallis, NS. He trained as a vehicle tech (mechanic), did a peacekeeping mission in the Golan, was the recipient of the “deserving member award” where he travelled around the world, and finally ended his career after many years of instructing mechanics at CFB Borden taking early retirement when FRP (forces reduction plan) came out. Just staying home was not enough for Mike and he took various employment in Ontario after retiring from the forces, working at building backyard play equipment, getting his real estate license and selling houses, but was quite excited when he got hired with Honda of Canada Manufacturing- he was back working on vehicles! This time building the body. Mike was always looking to keep busy and provide for his family. He did so until his first autoimmune diagnosis (of which was to be many) - forced him to retire (again?) early. Genealogy took over his spare time and Mike was happy to locate close to the Melanson settlement. He finally felt as though he had “come home” when moving to Nova Scotia.

Mike is survived by his wife of 42 1/2 years, (he was SO proud of that!) Karen, his special therapy pup and best pal, Kooper. Mike and Karen’s daughters, Crystal and Melissa (Dwayne) who supplied the pride that shone in his eyes, grandchildren, Tara, Chloe (who doubled as additional daughters), Douglas and Sophia - who all gave their grandad such immense joy! His parents, John and Eileen Melanson as well as his two sisters Cindy (Bob) and Diana (Bernie). Many special nieces and nephews, with whom Mike shared time, stories and laughter. Perhaps they warmed him up enough to deal with Karen’s siblings - with whom any time spent was reviewed for weeks afterwards. Ah the stories!

Rest easy now, MJ. Loving you forever. Godspeed.

Donations to either Lupus Canada, or CPFF (Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation) to assist others diagnosed or research would be appreciated.

Special thanks to ARVFD and Dr. Islam Eissa for whom Mike had the utmost respect and gratitude. To Constable John Galloway for the hours spent after Mike had passed, to Melissa and Krista of Pharmachoice for the years of knowledge, understanding and assistance given. Holly of Family First Medical, Tabitha Hoyt for services provided, and last, but certainly not least, all “the girls” at the ivig clinic in ARHC. Thank you.

Cremation has taken place (sorry Mike, the fireworks in your pockets were denied!)  As per Mike's wishes there will be no funeral service, however, a celebration of life will take place 1 pm, Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Kaulbach Family Funeral Home, Annapolis Royal.

Online condolences may be made at www.kaulbachfamilyfuneralhome.com