Obituary of Michael James Carmody

After a lengthy and hard-fought battle against complications from chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), Michael Carmody died peacefully on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at WRHN Midtown (formerly Grand River Hospital) at age 70. 

Michael is survived by his wife of 29 years, Christine; his beloved sons, Aidan and Joseph (both at home); his much-loved siblings, Heather, Catherine, Patrick, Miriam, and Peter; and his nieces and nephew, Sarah, Matthew, and Erika. He also leaves behind his best friends, Kerry and Tim, who were long thought to be bad influences but turned out to be saints; Mark, his dear friend of 50 years; and his best pals, Roger and Dan. Michael had the best friends.

Michael grew up in Pembroke, Ontario. He spent his summers at his family’s cottage at Black Bay, took up running and discovered computers during high school. Michael left Pembroke to study computer science at the University of Waterloo and from then on, Kitchener-Waterloo was his home. 

Michael was a passionate software developer, an excellent chef, a devoted foodie, a dad to many cats, a good neighbour, and a friend to many. He taught his sons the important things: that cats are members of the family, that hard work matters, and that food is love. His sons each carry the very best of Michael within them. Aidan and Joseph will go on to build lives filled with friends, family, love, and good food, just as Michael did. Michael was very loved and he will always be missed. Michael lived his life as a generous, caring, and thoughtful man. He will be remembered for being kind first and foremost. In the end that is what matters most.

Michael asked that you think of him whenever you eat lasagna. But, true to form, he wanted you to know that the lasagna you will be eating will never be as good as his.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, Archie and Norah, and his sister, Maureen.

In accordance with Michael's wishes there will be no funeral service. Cremation has taken place.

A celebration of Michael's life will take place in the Fireside Reception Room of the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Remarks to be held at 3:00 p.m. Casual attire is requested by the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the WRHN Foundation (Midtown 6B) would be appreciated and may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or at www.erbgood.com.

The nurses, nurse practitioner, physicians, and staff of 6B cared for Michael through most of the last four months of his life with extraordinary compassion and kindness. We will be forever grateful for the exceptional care Michael received from the day he was diagnosed with leukemia until he took his last breath.