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 Mule, who provided unsurpassed care and guided the whole family through Michael’s last journey.
Visitation will be held at McCoubrey Funeral Home 30 King St. E., Cobourg, ON, 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 Hospice
2021
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Michael Yorke
Barrington 2021..
Décès pour la Ville:Cobourg, Province: Ontario