MICHAEL JOHN CAPEL

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MICHAEL JOHN CAPEL May 24, 1943 May 27, 2013 Mike passed away peacefully in his sleep three days after his 70th birthday. He was the only child in his family and was predeceased by his parents Rosie Capel (nee Gilbourne, the daughter of Robert and Martha Gilbourne) and Frank Capel (the son of Edward and Rosina Capel). He leaves behind an extended family in the U.K. Mike was born in Brinsley, Nottinghamshire during the Second World War and moved to Cardiff, S. Wales after the war. In later years he attended the Cardiff High School for Boys, then went to Aberystwyth University in Wales where he received his B.Sc. Mike came to Winnipeg in 1965 to attend the University of Manitoba, where he graduated with his Masters Degree in Soil Science. Soon after graduation he found employment with the Manitoba Soil Survey, where he worked until 1970. Liking a challenge, he joined the Department of Fisheries and Oceans' Freshwater Institute in 1970 where he was hired as the Experimental Lakes Area chemist, crossing over from soil studies to freshwater chemistry. In 1972 his research interests turned towards environmental mercury studies, and from there to other environmental toxins and pollutants. He loved problem solving, and being self-taught in electronics and computer science, frequently assisted other researchers having software or hardware problems, trying first to teach them how to fix the problem, then helping if necessary. In the mid-1990s his computer skills were recognized and used full time when he joined the Information Technology Division at the Freshwater Institute. In 2005, after 35 years of service, he retired from the Federal Government. Michael lived a modest life and never married, but took joy in a wide range of interests that always made for lively discussions with friends. He had an enduring love of the printed word and often sought out texts on everything from scientific theory to philosophy that were thought-provoking and often controversial. He revelled in solving cryptic crossword puzzles and usually found the elusive answers for friends' Linux and Windows computer problems. He was an accomplished guitarist and appreciated quality musical instruments, sometimes having impromptu jam sessions with fellow researchers in field camps. Mike loved birds and had several bird feeders in his yard that he stocked year-round and noted the seasons as different birds appeared. He knew Spring was here because "the juncos have arrived". Mike never threw away a useful object just because it was old, however he would purchase an updated version because it was more useful. He had almost every computer he ever purchased, right back to his earliest Sinclair machine. And he was the first person we knew to buy a red LED wristwatch, which at the time cost a fortune. Michael never wanted birthday celebrations, and was uncomfortable with recognition of significant events in his life. As per his wishes, there will be no funeral nor memorial service. Michael's remains have been cremated. Mike was a hard worker, a precise and conscientious researcher, a caring mentor, and above all, a great friend. He will be sorely missed. If desired, donations in Michael's name can be made to a charity of your choice. THOMSON FUNERAL HOME 669 BROADWAY, WINNIPEG, MB R3C OX4 783-7211 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsonfuneralchapel.com
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2013

MICHAEL JOHN CAPEL Mike passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 27, 2013. Final arrangements are pending notification of next of kin in Wales. A longer obituary will follow.
Publish Date: Jun 1, 2013

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 15, 2013