Black – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael “Buzzard” Bradshaw Black. He passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025 at the age of 73, completely surrounded by love, at the Brooks Health Center. Mike (Brad) was born in London, Ontario on February 12, 1951 to Doulgas and Irene (Fletcher) Black. He grew up with, and is survived by his siblings Craig, Faye, and Lee. He graduated from H.B. Beal High School, where he took an interest in welding and electronics and would deliver the school news with his friend, Al (Scoop). Mike moved to Alberta in the 1980’s. He fostered a love for motorcycles and if he wasn’t cruising or hill climbing, he was working on his bikes. Mike also had a passion for animals and gardening. He took such pride in his garden each year growing things like pumpkins, corn, sunflowers, and a variety of other fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Mike spent his career as a journeyman welder, most recently before retirement, at JBS. Beyond his work, he would use his skill and talent to create various unique and practical projects. Due to his kind, loving, funny, laid-back nature, many considered Mike a close friend. He even became an honorary uncle to his friend Jim’s kids, Mike, Harley and Nyky. He met his wife Sharon in 1998, while they both worked at JBS. Before they became an official couple, Sharon moved back to Ontario. They stayed in contact and built a relationship, getting to know each other through letters, phone calls and visits. It wasn’t long before they fell in love and Sharon and her youngest daughter, Brittney, moved back out to Alberta to live with him. Loretta, the oldest daughter moved out a few years later with his first two granddaughters, Emily and Hannah. This was the beginning of his family expanding into what it is now. The next grand baby to arrive was Nathan, followed by Natalie, Benjamin and Carter. His family grew even more to include his son-in-law Matthew and newly welcomed grandkids Austin and Makyia. It also extended even further to include “adopted” family Melissa, Candace, Saleen, and Lillith. Mike was a kind and compassionate man whose love knew no bounds. Whether his family or friends were in Ontario, Alberta or elsewhere, he deeply cherished his relationships. Mike was more than a husband, father and grandfather—he was a source of strength and our family hero. His legacy of love and selflessness will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in his life. A Celebration of Life and bike run for Mike will happen in the spring/summer. Information will be shared at a later date. To honor Mike’s memory and love for animals, donations can be made directly to BAPS, Box 86, Brooks, Alberta T1R 1B2 or Cleo’s Karma cleoskarma@gmail.com
Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at
Smith Funeral Home Ltd., Brooks
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD.
BROOKS, ALBERTA
Condolences may be forwarded through www.sfh.ca
Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free 866-362-4652
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