September 20, 1943 - June 24, 2025
In loving memory ~
September 20, 1943 - June 24, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mike Beggs in the Cowichan District Hospital, Duncan, B.C. on June 24, 2025. Mike passed with his loving wife, Darlene, at his side holding his hand.
Mike will be lovingly remembered by the "Love of his Life", Darlene, sister Sandra (Ian), sister-in-law Kathleen Beggs, numerous nieces and nephews. Also, Darlene's extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Stella and William (Bill), sister Pat Robinson and her spouse Brian, brother John.
Mike was born in Victoria, B.C. on September 20, 1943. He grew up in Chemainus, BC until joining the Military as a "Boy Soldier" at 16 years of age. He was posted throughout Canada and Germany where he met the "Love of his Life" Darlene. They married in Germany, not once but twice. Once by the Bergermeister (Mayor) of Lahr. Then married in the church, as per Canadian Forces regulations. Mike and Darlene took his Mom, Darlene's parents & Darlene's sister Gwen on their honeymoon to Athens, Greece. Had a great time!!
Michael served his country for 34 years. Postings all over Canada, 3 times in Germany where he even learned to speak German. Mike had many passions. He was an avid snow skier and instructor, diver, avid fisherman, great hunter along with his brother John, friends and nephews. He also liked to make wine, which sometimes he was known to sample.
It has already been written that Mike had a tireless commitment to his family, friends and community. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone and do it with a smile. Even with his health declining over the past year Mike always had a grin and quick wit, even if his mouth couldn't find the words as fast as his mind and what we ended up getting was an "ah shit" followed by a laugh that always made others laugh and smile with him. He was a "Life Member" of the Chemainus Rod and Gun, "Life Member" of the Chemainus Legion. He served the Legion in numerous positions, President, Past President, Sergeant at Arms, Recording Secretary, ran the bingo for 13 years!!, Remembrance Day celebrations and Poppy Campaign. Always on the go!!
He was a very active member of the Chemainus Rotary. He was their Past President. As quoted by the current President of Rotary - Our Rotary Club, our community and the world has lost a bright light in the passing of Mike. A man, who in the eyes of anyone he crossed paths with was an exemplary Canadian and Rotarian.
When Mike and Darlene retired they enjoyed traveling and especially once they found their "Home away from Home" in Bucerias, Mexico. They enjoyed many wonderful years there with friends from home while making many new friends from all over the world.
A special thank you goes out to all the nurses and doctors who helped to make Mike's last couple of days comfortable and hopefully pain free.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Mellor Hall at the exhibition grounds, 7380 Trans Canada Highway in Duncan, BC on Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 2:00 pm to 5:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Br. 191, Chemainus, BC.
Service Details
2:00 PM