Whitehorse Daily Star

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Michael L. Baldwin

September 16, 1954 – December 12, 2022

In Loving Memory – It is with heavy hearts that the Baldwin Family announces the passing of Mike Baldwin. Mike will be remembered and cherished by his loving children, Nicole (Matthew) and Derek (Carol), grandson Brayden, brother Danny (Bonny). He was predeceased by the love of his life, Laurel, parents, Doug, Alberta, and brother Ron.

His father being in the military meant many stops in various bases across the country. Mike was born in Gander, Newfoundland and spent many good times with aunts, uncles, and cousins in Bay Bulls during his father’s two postings to that base, and subsequent visits as he grew up - taking some literary licence here as there is some debate as to whether he ever grew up! Regular military moves led to Fort Churchill, Manitoba, Moncton, New Brunswick, and eventually to Inuvik…where he found the love of his life, Laurel. An unplanned transfer to Kingston, Ontario as a result of his youngest brother’s accident pulled him away from Laurel, but not for long! During his time in Kingston, Mike played Junior ‘A’ hockey for the Kingston Canadiens. But that wasn’t his dream…that dream still resided in Inuvik and her name was Laurel!

Eventually leaving Inuvik, Mike and Laurel moved to Edmonton, Alberta for Laurel to complete her Medical Imaging program and Mike working in the Arctic for the oil and gas sector. They both arrived in the Yukon in 1976 where Laurel was offered a one-year contract by the Whitehorse General Hospital. They soon realised that the Yukon was a hidden gem and the short stay turned into their forever home. That was home and will always be! Mike enjoyed many things the Yukon offered. His family and friends he cherished with fond stories and memories, outdoor wilderness adventures, social events, the odd game of golf and baseball, as well as a little “F*ck you”. Mike would give assistance to anyone that needed a hand, right down to the shirt off his back. His laugh was contagious, as well as his smile. We loved him dearly, and we will miss him greatly, forever.

Mike did not want a large sombre ceremony on his passing, and the family will honour his wishes with a celebration gathering on January 7, 2023 at the Kopper King beginning at 3pm for a toast, reminicing and a few laughs. The entire family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support during this difficult time.

Comments (9)

Harold & Ilda Hildebrand on Jan 7, 2023 at 1:02 am

We would like to give our sympathy to Mike's Family and really enjoyed his & his wife Laurels friendship when got to know them briefly, I was going to rent golf clubs to golf when we came up in fall to visit the Potter's and Mike wouldn't hear of it, he said use mine, I said the driver looks brand new and he said Laurel just bought it for his Birthday, I said I don't feel at all right using it but Mike said use the dam clubs and enjoy, he was always so friendly, caring and welcoming.

Sue Laberge on Jan 4, 2023 at 3:32 pm

So sorry to hear of Mike’s passing.
Condolences to the family.

Glenn Babala on Dec 27, 2022 at 8:15 pm

So sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. I great friend and is going to be missed!

Vicky Stao on Dec 26, 2022 at 9:43 am

So deeply sorry to read of Mike’s passing. He was such a wonderful man and whose company we enjoyed for over 30 years.
Ian & Vicky

Teresa on Dec 25, 2022 at 1:30 pm

Mike is finally able to join Laurel, safe travels Mike. From Inuvik to Whitehorse your love was legendary. We will miss you❤

Stella Martin on Dec 24, 2022 at 3:25 pm

So sorry for your loss, Laurel and family.

Kenneth Zubko on Dec 24, 2022 at 9:07 am

Sorry to hear, my condolences to the family.
I remember many great times with Mike in high-school volleyball.

Randy Zuberbier on Dec 23, 2022 at 6:13 pm

Our deepest sympathy to the Baldwin family. Mikes story telling and adventures will be missed by all. This from all his story telling friends, golfing buddies, fishing buddies and family near Slave Lake Alberta

Patricia Banks on Dec 23, 2022 at 4:24 pm

Thinking of you, Nicole and Derek. Pat

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