John Michael Brady

1936 - 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear John Michael "Mike" Brady on December 4th, 2024, surrounded by family with his beloved Barb by his side. Born in Toronto in 1936, Mike cherished his childhood on Grenadier Heights and was deeply engaged in activities like skating on and fishing in Grenadier Pond. He attended St. Michael’s College, where he played hockey and participated in student council, and later rowed for the Argonaut Rowing Club.

Mike began his career as a priest at St. Michael’s Cathedral and was a member of the Flying Fathers Hockey Team, raising money for families in need. After meeting the love of his life, Barb, on a ski trip, Mike received a dispensation from Rome to leave the priesthood and marry her. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and adventure. Their home in the Henry Farm neighborhood and their cherished family cottage on Lake Joseph became gathering places for countless joyful memories.

Mike’s passions included skiing—earning a Level 2 instructor certificate—golfing, reading, and classical music. In retirement, Mike and Barb moved to Lora Bay in Thornbury, where they enjoyed the vibrant community. Mike was deeply respected for his unwavering kindness, strong faith, and commitment to helping others. He exemplified grace, forgiveness, and unconditional love, leaving a lasting legacy of integrity and warmth.

Mike is survived by his wife Barbara, children Robert (Andrea) Helwig, Bruce Helwig, Anne (Duncan) Yull, sisters Carol (Tom) Phelan and Marilynne (Greg) Teskey, and many nieces and nephews. He was a beloved Grampa Mike to Alex, Caitlin, Sarah, Abby, Andrew, Teddy, and Thompson, and a proud great-grandfather to Sidney.

A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 3055 Bloor St. W, at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 16th. Memorial donations can be made to Sleeping Children Around the World.