POWER, Raymond Michael Power

Michael Power, known to many as “Peewee” or “Big Mike”, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, at the age 48, with his mom, cousin Karen, and aunt Karen holding his hands. He fought courageously after a stroke, surrounded by love until the very end.

Born in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Mike was the cherished son of Barbara Roach (Bernie). Mike was a devoted father to his three children, Kayley, Maggie, and Max, who were the centre of his world and the greatest joy of his life. He is survived by his brother, Patrick (Laurette), nieces Kaitlyn and Taylor, stepbrother Darrick (Tina), niece and nephew, Alyssa and Camryn and his biological father, Glenn. He is also survived by his loyal dog Daisy.

He leaves behind a large, close-knit extended family, including 14 aunts and uncles, 33 first cousins, and countless friends that he considered family.

To his children, Mike was silly, friendly, humble, generous, kind, and the best hugger. He was their protector, their calm place, their biggest supporter, and simply the best dad ever. His children would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to their friends for the love and support shown during this difficult time.

Mike was predeceased by his stepbrother Dan; aunts and uncles Danny (first born), Doreen, Louie, Patsy, Raymond, and Linda; and cousins Brent, Joey, Wendy, Bradley, and Danny. He is reunited with his grandparents; Ray and Marg Power (Nanny and Grampy) and Hubert and Hughena Roach (Mere and Pere), who helped shape his proud Cape Breton roots.

Mike spent his childhood in New Waterford, where he developed a lifelong passion for sports, especially basketball and boxing. His friendships from those early years remained strong throughout his life. At just 15, he stepped into the boxing ring for the first time. By 17, he had become the Maritime Super Heavyweight Champion, earning the ring name “The New Waterford Hammer.” His love for his hometown never faded; he continued sending boxing equipment to New Waterford to help support young athletes.

Mike proudly served with the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves for 10 years, bringing the same dedication, discipline, and humility to his military service that he carried into every part of his life.

After moving to Ontario, Mike’s passion for boxing grew even stronger. He became a mentor to countless young athletes, many of whom went on to compete at the provincial, national, and even professional levels. Since his illness, the flood of messages from former athletes and families has been overwhelming, each one a testament to the lives he changed through encouragement, structure, and unwavering belief in others.

As a former President of Boxing Ontario, Mike championed higher coaching standards, strengthened athlete development, and worked to create a more accessible, athlete-centered provincial system. His leadership helped unify the sport and build a stronger foundation for future generations.

His long-standing role as Vice President of Motor City Boxing Club in Oshawa was one of the cornerstones of his legacy. With his guidance, the club became known for developing disciplined, technically skilled athletes. Mike’s influence reached far beyond coaching; he was a dedicated volunteer, event organizer, and community builder who believed boxing was as much about belonging as it was about competition.

He also co-owned Sting Canada, a boxing equipment company, with his business partner and long time friend, Don.

Beyond the boxing world, Mike spent over 20 years working with Ontario Power Generation (OPG), where he formed many friendships that became lifelong connections.

Across every part of his life, he was respected, admired, and deeply loved. His loyalty ran deep, and he made room in his heart for everyone.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Sunnybrook ICU team, the Lakeridge Oshawa CCU, and the exceptional doctors, nurses, and social workers who cared for Mike with such compassion and kindness over the past eight weeks.

They also express profound appreciation to the children’s schools and school community; Bowmanville High School, The Pines Senior Public School, and Waverley Public School, for their tremendous, unwavering support during this deeply difficult time.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Northcutt Elliott Funeral Home, 53 Division St, Bowmanville, ON.

Schedule

• 2:00–4:00 PM – Drop-in visitation

• 4:00–5:30 PM – Memories and stories (open mic)

• 5:30–6:00 PM – Closing and wrap-up

Guests are invited to wear camo, military attire, a poppy, a Hawaiian shirt, or anything that reflects what Mike loved, as a special way to honour his spirit.

Light snacks and beverages will be provided.

A live stream will be available for those who are unable to attend in person.

Donations in Mike’s honour may be made to the GoFundMe to support his children, (https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-mike-power-pee-wee-on-his-road-to-recovery) or to a charity of your choice.