With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, partner, and friend, John Michael Byrne, who passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026 at his residence.

Born in Bridgeport, Nova Scotia, on September 28, 1936, Michael, fondly referred to as Da by his children, was the son of the late John Byrne and Maggie Ellen (MacLean) Byrne.

Da was the last surviving member of his immediate family. He was predeceased by his wife, Uldeen (Mombourquette) Byrne, the mother of his children, who passed away in 2000 and also by his sisters Sara, Kathleen, Josephine, and Margie, and brothers Justin and Joe. As of recently, he was predeceased by his life-long friend Michael MacDonald who he kept in touch with up until the last months of his life through phone calls where they reminisced and laughed about the good ol’ days.

 Da leaves behind a large and loving family who will cherish his memory forever. He is survived by his children Michael (Corinna), Darlene, Darryl (Susan), Glen (Lorna), Shauna (Chris), and Priscilla (Shannon), grandchildren Victoria, Erica, Logan, Dylan, Tyler, Nadine, Chantal, Chelsea, Scott, Madison, Tristan, Alanna, Cameron, Christian, Cassidy, Cody, Breah, and Colton. He held a special place in his heart for his grandson Tyler, who was more like a son to him, and his grandson Cameron, who shared a particularly close bond with his Poppy.

He is also survived by his special nieces Loie and Sheila, brothers-in-law Orville Mombourquette and Eddie Lynk, and sister-in-law Willa Byrne. Following the loss of his beloved wife 26 years ago, Da was fortunate to find companionship again with his partner, Cora Nutter. For nearly 20 years, they shared their lives together, creating many cherished memories filled with laughter, friendship, and unwavering support. Cora brought joy and comfort to Da’s later years, and their bond was a special and meaningful part of his life. Da spent 30 years working as a motorman in the coal mines, a career he took great pride in. He was a hardworking man who valued dedication, loyalty, and providing for his family. Although he worked hard throughout his life, he also knew how to enjoy the simple things. Some of his greatest pleasures included spending time with his family, tending to his garden, sitting on the step during warm summer days, and attending his daily "Bridgeport Council Meetings" with the other self-appointed councillors of the Bridgeport Rows. Those gatherings were filled with stories, laughter, debate, and friendship, and became one of the highlights of his days.

One of Da's most memorable qualities was his wonderfully dry sense of humor. He delivered jokes and witty remarks with such a straight face that you could never be quite sure whether he was serious or teasing. Spending time with him meant always being ready for a clever comment and a good laugh. In recent years, Da was blessed with the care and support of many people. The family would like to extend sincere gratitude to the Palliative Care team, VON, New Waterford Home Care, Dr. Adams, and all those who helped make it possible for him to remain in the comfort and dignity of his own home.

A special thank you is also extended to his youngest daughter, Priscilla, whose unwavering dedication and care over the past several months allowed her father to remain where he most wanted to be—at home, surrounded by those he loved. Also, a special thank you to Loie and John for their commitment and endless support to Da over the years. They loved Da and were never more than a phone call away, and we could never thank them enough. Da, you will be deeply missed.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. There will be no visitation or mass. The burial for Michael will be held on Thursday, June 11th, 2026 at Calvary Cemetery, Bridgeport at 11 am. with Fr. Norman MacPhee presiding.

Following the burial, all are invited to Michael’s home at 33 Station Street, Bridgeport for a celebration of his life.  Online condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca