Michael Herbert Doris

Mike lived fully, generously, and unapologetically. He was a devoted and proud husband, father, and grandfather, loyal friend, and respected businessman who built his life on hard work, integrity, and unwavering love for his family.

Mike was the beloved husband of Jane (Johnston) for nearly 60 years. Their marriage was rooted in friendship, devotion, and affection. Together they built a busy life, always placing family at the centre of everything they did. He was fiercely loved by his children, Tara (Cliff) and Todd (Alicia), and was a caring, committed, and hands-on father whose support could always be counted on. Mike led by example, teaching those around him the value of loyalty, resilience, unconditional love, and acceptance.

His greatest joy was being Papa to Liam, Zach (Eve), Ben, Kate, and Andrew. He adored each of his grandchildren and built unique and lasting bonds with them through time spent in the garden, the garage, the woods, or simply over cookies and ice cream. He had a natural gift with children and animals, both of whom seemed to recognize his good nature and perhaps his habit of slipping them treats when no one was looking.

Mike was the eldest son of the late Cyril and Joan (Tees) Doris. He is remembered by his siblings Joanne and Murray Hawman, Jane and Bob Martin, Maureen and the late Terry Wells, the late Mary and the late Murray Jordison, and Dan and Cynthia Doris. He will also be fondly remembered by the Johnston family: John and Lorna, Tom and Kathy, Kim, Kathy and David Stone, and by many nieces and nephews.

Mike grew up in Otonabee Township and at an early age he headed west to Lafleche, Saskatchewan.  There, he worked on the Corkery farm, drove gravel trucks and began his lifelong friendship with George DeCap.  He made many return trips west to visit friends and family, elk hunt with brothers-in-law John and Tom, and search for old vehicles for winter projects. He spent more than 50 years in the sheet metal and HVAC trade. His career culminated in founding Kawartha Lakes HVAC with his son Todd.  Mike was known for his ability to take on any project, big or small. Among his many restorations was a prized 1957 International truck - the same truck he had driven in his younger Saskatchewan years. He brought a meaningful piece of his own history back to life.

Mike loved reading, boating, gardening, camping, hunting, and time spent in nature. In later years, he especially cherished time at the hunt camp, where the door was always open for cards, stories, laughter, good company and maybe a beer or two.  Mike will be missed beyond measure for his steady presence, generous spirit, strength of character, wonderful sense of humour, and yes, that stubborn streak too. His love was constant, dependable, and deeply felt and his legacy lives on in the strong and loving family he and Jane created.

Special thanks to Dr. Dickie, Dr. Morelli, Nurse Jenn, the palliative care team as well as the staff at Hospice Peterborough.

Memorial donations may be made to the Cancer Care Unit at PRHC, Hospice Peterborough or the charity of your choice.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration and remembrance of Mike’s life on Saturday May 23rd from 1-4pm at Highland Park Funeral Centre, 2510 Bensfort Road, Peterborough.