It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of John Michael Roome (Mike) on March 8, 2023, in his 93rd year. A great Dad and beloved husband of 66 years to the late Joyce Mary Roome (Gillespie).
He will be missed by sons Ian Roome, Peter (Dorilyn Kooy) and Tim (Laura Roome) and fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Carly, Jeff , Molly and Chris. Loving brother to Mary (David Blunt) and brother-in-law to Lynda (Ewen Campbell). Uncles to Geoff and Tony Blunt and Greg Campbell. He was also ‘Uncle Mike’ to Sue (Senn), Jill (Speirs) and Sheila (Coyne) Reid, Heather (Borquez), Rosemary (Bickerton), Michael, David and Peter Nesbitt.
Born in Greenwich, UK, he immigrated to Montreal in 1941. He graduated from Ashbury College in Ottawa where he made lifelong friends. Mike enjoyed a career as a Purchasing Agent with Cunard Steamship Lines in Montreal in the early years where his passion for naval ships was fostered. After moving to Ottawa in 1969, he worked as a Property Manager for the Department of National Health and Welfare. He retired in 1993.
Mike loved to travel with Joyce all over the world, but their favorite place was Rockley Beach in Barbados. Every year for 35 years they would go in late February, for sun, fun and a visit with their many friends. Mike enjoyed music, dancing, golf, good wine and a great laugh. He was also an accomplished model ship builder.
He loved the outdoors, and spent some time as a scout leader. When he wasn’t doing all that he really enjoyed camping, golfing, traveling, or just hanging out with his best friend John Nesbitt.
A huge thanks to Gigi and Susan at Nurse on Board for their unending support, to the staff at St. Patrick’s Home for their excellent care, and the many doctors and nurses who cared for Mike at the Ottawa Hospital.
Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at Beechwood Cemetary. The service will be held in the Chapel on Thursday April 13, 2023, at 1:00pm. We chose this date because it would have been Mike’s 94th birthday - let’s call it ‘one last birthday party’ - a celebration of his life. A reception will follow.
Livre de visiteurs
Hal and Shirley Price
Elaine Garfinkel
Mike’s wife Joyce and I were colleagues and good friends at the OBE. We shared many good times and I have wonderful memories of spending time with them in Barbados and Florida. My sincerest condolences to all the family.
Gigi van den Hoef
My deepest condolences to the Roome family.
Sharon Lewis
My Condolences to all the family at this time. I will always have great memories of Michael and Joyce at their Riverside Drive Condo. Many chats and laughs lovely couple.. Rest in Peace
Mikes' wife Joyce and I met as colleagues at the Ottawa Board of Education in the mid 1970's and we became friends.shortly after with both Joyce and Mike, a friendship that lasted these many years. We miss them so very much. Our deepest condolences to their family.