Obituary of Aaron Morris Michel

Aaron Morris Michel, 78, passed away peacefully, and surrounded by his loving family, on Dec 15, 2025, at the Doctor Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Aaron was the steadfast pillar of strength and love his family was built on. He is lovingly survived by his adoring wife Ellen “Ellie” Patricia Michel (née Cornford), son Joshua Michel (Laura Guitard), daughter Sarah Michel (Caleb Michel Kingsland), daughter Jessica Rose (Brian Rose), and perpetual puppy, Chester. In addition, Aaron is survived by his grandchildren: Patrick Michel Kingsland, Lillian "Lala" Michel Kingsland, and Hudson Rose, who all occupied a special place in his heart. Aaron took the utmost pride and joy in being called Husband, Dad, and Papa. From the time Aaron became a father, until he became grandfather, his life revolved around loving, supporting, and teaching his children. When he became a grandfather, his scope expanded to lovingly doting on his grandchildren and reminding his children what remarkable adults and parents they had become.

Aaron is also survived by his brother-in-law Eric Mendelsohn of Toronto, sister Molly DeBoer, and brother-in-law Bob DeBoer, both of the Netherlands. In New Brunswick, he is survived by Laurie Brooks (Cecil), Tom Cornford (Jen), Mark Cornford (Marilyn), Donnie Cornford, Danny Cornford (Beth), Charlie Cornford (Nancy), Willie Cornford (Kristin Morehouse), Angie Nason (Troy), & Amy Paul (Misty) and cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. Aaron is predeceased by his loving sister and mentor Lillian “Lolla” Esther Mendelsohn, his mother, Myra (Selig), father, Jack Lyone “Lewis” Michel, mother-in-law, Geraldine "Jerry" Cornford, and father-in-law, Gordon Cornford. The Cornford family took Aaron in as their own, loved him for who he was, and he loved them back.

Aaron, who was known by many as Red (after his bright red hair), was born and raised in Winnipeg, MB. After graduating from St. John's High School, he followed his love for animals to the University of Manitoba, where he took Veterinary Studies. However, Aaron’s passion for adventure took control, and his focused shifted to his work with the Canadian Pacific Railroad, and eventually Pacific Western Airline. Aaron’s early career allowed him to travel through Canada and the world. As he traveled, Aaron developed a special understanding and respect for nature and culture.

Aaron’s travel eventually brought him to New Brunswick, where in 1983 he met his true love, Ellie. Aaron, with Ellie by his side, started their life together in New Brunswick, and he never looked back. It started with a simple question (“Hey, want to see my truck”), and over 42 years later, the rest is history. Aaron not only fell in love with Ellie, but also with the Maritimes. Together, Aaron and Ellie travelled all over the Maritimes on their “Walk Abouts”, which continued with their children once they were born. Aaron loved the natural beauty and treasures that New Brunswick had to offer, and shared that love with Ellie, Josh, Sarah and Jess. He and Ellie worked together to ensure their children knew how important their place was in this world, and that the world was a better place with them in it.

As Aaron laid down his enduring roots in New Brunswick, he started to focus on another passion: cooking and baking. Aaron worked in various bakeries before becoming a long-time vendor at the Boyce Farmer’s Market, and eventually opening his own restaurant, Michel’s Home Cookin’. Aaron and his family dedicated 11 years to Michel’s Home Cookin’, where Aaron made the most delicious breakfasts and lunches. He took great pride in his work and made sure no one ever left hungry. Aaron coined the phrase Get “fed up” at Michel’s Home Cookin’.

Aaron was a gatherer and a nurturer who passed his love of nature and gardening on to his family. He loved fishing, hunting, canoeing, and walking in the woods, but to Aaron there was nothing better than early morning coffee dates with the love of his life, Ellie.

There will be a gathering for Aaron’s family and friends at York Funeral Home (302 Brookside Drive) on December 28, 2025, from 2-4 PM.

Donations in the memory of Aaron can be made to the Food Bank/Greener Village.