It is with a mixture of sadness and relief that we share the news of Michael Holliday’s passing on May 31, 2026 after a challenging journey with Alzheimer's.

Michael’s was a life well lived. Born in London, England, Michael moved to Ottawa after obtaining his PhD in chemistry. He applied this science to his work as an Occupational Health and Safety consultant and to his lifelong love of cooking and enjoying the results thereof, always with a glass of wine from his extensive cellar and the company of his wife of 45 years Monique.

Michael balanced his love of food with a passion for the outdoors – whether hiking, ski mountaineering, cross-country skiing, speed skating on the Canal, running marathons, or cycling – a passion he shared with his daughters Stephanie and Victoria.

He also liked travelling, and lived in Oaxaca, Mexico for a year working with Indigenous cultures. He and Monique enjoyed a memorable trip to the Netherlands, touring around on their tandem bicycle. And of course, there were the never frequent enough trips home to England to see his family and share delicious dinners filled with raucous laughter.

Michael is survived by his wife Monique, his daughter Victoria and step-daughter Catherine, sister Jen, brother-in-law Roger, nephew Tom and niece Alex, sister Ange and brother-in-law Dave, cousin Tony, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Michael will be remembered for his intellect, dedication to social justice, and waving to the neighbours while he and Monique enjoyed summer dinners on the front porch. Finally free from the grip of Alzheimer's, may the wind always be at your back as you ride off into the sunset, filled with love, and of course, toast and marmite.