Obituary of Michael Douglas Boudreau CD

Michael Douglas Boudreau, CD 

November 16, 1951 – January 21, 2026

Michael Douglas Boudreau (Mike) passed away peacefully, with family nearby, on January 21, 2026, at the age of 74. Born in Buffalo, New York, on November 16, 1951, Mike moved with his family to Saint John, New Brunswick, as a young child. It was there that he grew up, discovered his love of aviation and technology, and found in the cadets the discipline and curiosity that would shape the course of his life.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of fifty-three years, Helena (Hill), with whom he shared a life built on partnership, humour, and unwavering love. He will be deeply missed by his daughters, Rhonda (Jeff O’Connor) and Jennifer (partner, the late Tom Smith), and by his cherished grandsons, Sebastien and Jacob O’Connor, who brought him immense joy.

He is survived by his loving sister, Christine (Bob Saunders) and half-siblings Wayne and Mary (Kenny) Cox and Thomas (Kim). Mike was predeceased by his brother, Billy; his mother, Irene (Leonard); his stepfather, Vincent; as well as his biological father, Douglas Cox and half-siblings Terry, Randy and Stephen.

A proud member of the Canadian Armed Forces, Mike served from 1971 to 1999, retiring with the rank of Master Warrant Officer. His military career allowed him to unite his technical skills, his fascination with aviation, and his deep sense of duty. He began his service in Communications Research (MOC 291), later became an Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator (AESOP), and ultimately transitioned into computer programming. His work took him around the world, and one of his fondest memories was being part of the team that won the Fincastle Trophy in 1989, an international competition among Commonwealth anti‑submarine warfare crews. His passion for computers—well ahead of the mainstream—also led to a remarkable posting to NATO’s Headquarters Allied Forces Northern Europe in Oslo, Norway from 1984 to 1987.

After retiring from the military, Mike embarked on a second career in public service, applying his programming expertise at the Canada Revenue Agency until his retirement in 2007. Colleagues remember him as sharp‑minded, reliable, and generous with his knowledge.

Mike approached life with integrity, discipline, and quiet confidence. He loved technology and aviation, but above all, he loved his family, who will carry his memory forward with gratitude and pride.

The family is profoundly grateful to the care Mike received under Dr. Jeremy Gardner, his family doctor, as well as the physicians, nurses, and support staff at the Irving Greenberg  Cancer Centre and The Ottawa Hospital for the attentive and compassionate care they provided. Their warmth and dedication will always be remembered.

In keeping with his wishes, no service will be held. Those wishing to honour Mike’s memory are invited to consider a donation to Cancer Research at The Ottawa Hospital.