With heavy hearts we said goodbye to our father on June 4, 2026, at Matthews House Hospice in Alliston, ON. He passed peacefully, as we held his hands.
Dad was born in Hampstead, England to Frank and Joan Orford (deceased). The family emigrated to Canada in 1949 where he went to school and subsequently began his very successful, lifelong career with Dominion Stores Limited in the Toronto area, retiring in 2012.
He pursued several hobbies, enjoyed skiing, golfing, photography, cottaging and travel to exotic destinations among many other interests until he became ill in recent years.
Dad is survived by us, his sons Richard and Leigh (Tamara), his grandson Haiden, his sister Pat Allen (Pat, deceased) his brother Chris (Jan), sister Barb Hacker (Dave) and sister Suzie McQueen (Gord).
He leaves behind his many nieces and nephews, Karl (Sandra), Kevin (Jodi), Christopher (Jen), Nick (Amanda), Elliot (Sarah), Lindsay (deceased), Jamie, Jesse (Stephanie), Chrystal (Gary), Julian (Samantha), Camille (Fernando), numerous great as well as great, great nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his Aunty Liz in Toronto, cousins in Canada, U.S. and England, and his adored furry companions, Lola and Misty who have now been lovingly adopted.
Dad has been cremated and a Celebration of his Life is planned on his birthday on October 3, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., where he attended church: Lampstand Bolton Christian Church (2 Jane St, Bolton, ON).
If desired, memorial donations to a charity of your choice would be welcomed.
Rest in Peace dad, we love you…..
Rick and Leigh
Peaceful Transition Simcoe
Kim Duffield
Posted on: Thursday, July 9, 2026It was sad to hear the news of Michael’s passing. He is missed greatly by his Church family and will be remembered for his heartfelt love of God. My sincerest condolences to the family. R.I.P Michael 🙏
John Z.
Posted on: Thursday, October 1, 2026I was very saddened to learn of your father’s passing.
I had the privilege of working with and supporting your father during his time as a Manager with A&P/Metro. He was a true professional who led with integrity, demonstrated a strong work ethic, and treated others with kindness and respect. It was an honour to know and work alongside him.
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Wishing you strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
John
Robert Goodwin
Posted on: Sunday, October 4, 2026Our sincere condolences on the loss of your father and grandfather Michael Orford.
I knew him first as the store manager of Dominion/Metro, at both Bayview and York Mills, then at Yonge and Eglinton. After he retired we became golfing buddies, sometimes with other Metro staff. Good times were had when we got together.
He will be missed.
God bless you all.
Bob Goodwin and my sons Jason and Matt