Sanderson, Michael John
Fisherman Extraordinaire
April 25, 1960 to November 11, 2009
Michael Sanderson passed away on November 11, 2009 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Comox after a long battle with brain cancer. Mike was surrounded by his loving family and close personal friends.
Mike was predeceased in 2007 by his son Eric and is survived by his loving wife France, son Russell (Kareen), mother Trisha Gray, father John (Sandra) Sanderson, sisters Ann and Pamela, brother Geoff (Jacynthe) and his extended family.
Michael began his commercial fishing career at the age of 16 as a deckhand on his father’s troller, the Ocean Gambler. His passion for fishing would last a lifetime. Michael became a skipper at the age of 21, met the love of his life, France, partners for 27 years and together they became the proud owners of the fishing vessel Harmony Isle and Fish and Stitches. Michael was a family man who ensured France, Russell and Eric shared his life both at sea and on land. The children grew up on the deck of the boat, a true fishing family. Michael also enjoyed his leisure time and the family could often be found, skiing, rowing, travelling and entertaining. He loved to be surrounded by friends and relatives and never missed an opportunity to welcome them into his home to share good food, music and wine. The smell of homemade bread, a talent he mastered with his mother Trish, became Michael’s trademark. He will never be forgotten.
Michael dedicated countless hours in support of the commercial fishing industry, which included serving on the Board of Directors on the Pacific Troller’s Association, Northern Troller’s Association, Gulf Troller’s Association, B.C. Salmon Marketing Council and the Comox Valley Harbour Authority.
The family wishes to send a special thank you to Dr. Atwell, Dr. Brailey, Dr. Ostry, and the nurses and staff of the 3rd floor of St Joseph’s Hospital for their kindness and care.
In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to make a donation can do so to In Memory of Michael Sanderson:St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation; The Palliative Care Project, 250-890-3046.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 20th at 6:00pm at the Comox Band Hall, 3320 Comox Road, Courtenay, B.C.