It is with profound sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Michael James Dolderman. He was a devoted husband, father, friend and highly regarded member of our community – a man whose stories will be the material for both epic history and legend. Mike passed away peacefully at home on November 17, 2023, after courageously confronting an aggressive cancer. He was surrounded by his beloved wife, Brenda, and his five children who had all returned home to care for him: Brianna (Noah), Karlie, Christina, Reuben and Avery. Together with Mike’s siblings and their spouses, Kevin (Lisa), William (Sharon), and Michelle (Henry), we held Mike with love and ushered him into the loving arms of his Saviour. Born in Guelph on January 3, 1971, Mike’s heart belonged to Wellington County. He attended Centre Wellington High School and lived for 25 years in a loving home he created for his family in Ennotville. Mike was a dedicated supporter of his spiritual community, neighbourhood, and local businesses. Mike’s professional achievements also reflected a life dedicated to service and excellence. Beginning his law enforcement journey with a short tenure at Peel Regional Police, he later transitioned to the Fergus Police which later amalgamated with the OPP. In 2003, he continued his service with the OPP’s UCRT (Urban Search and Rescue, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive Response team), eventually achieving the rank of Sergeant while there. In 2016, Mike returned as a Sergeant to Wellington County, stationed at the Rockwood detachment, in order to support his wife during a challenging period of illness. As a canine handler, he made lifelong friends, responding to numerous calls with his dogs Raker and Snoop. His expertise at a technician level in various rescue disciplines combined with his extensive knowledge of the Ontario Building Code made him an invaluable asset at UCRT. Mike has garnered significant recognition throughout his career, notably receiving the Commissioner’s Citation for Lifesaving, a testament to his valor and commitment to preserving life. Additionally, his dedication and exemplary service over two decades were honoured with the prestigious Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal. These accolades portrayed his outstanding contributions and marked his distinguished career in the field. Mike Dolderman’s legacy will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his unwavering commitment to community, for his leadership, and for the impact he had on the lives of those around him. Beyond his career endeavors, Mike demonstrated leadership in all he touched. He founded “Breakaway,” a youth drop-in sports program in Fergus, organized a free Saturday night Volleyball league at Centre Wellington High School, and hosted “Beer and Bibles” on Thursday nights at his local favorite restaurant, highlighting his diverse initiatives in his own community. Standing at 6 foot 6 inches, with a commanding voice, it is no surprise that his coaching in the Fergus Elora District Soccer League left an indelible mark on many young lives. Known for his affable nature and passion for networking, Mike enjoyed assisting others and found purpose in using his skills for the well-being and betterment of those around him. But Mike’s three greatest passions were his faith in Jesus Christ, his love and commitment to his family, and his generosity in friendship. Shortly after celebrating the wedding of his daughter, Brianna to Noah, we learned of his prognosis and Mike subsequently asked that all who loved him would help him finish well. Together, we faced his death, reflecting on his courage, our mutual love, and a peace that makes no sense. Like Mike did, we trust in the promises found in God’s Word of eternal rest for those who put their faith in Him. Arrangements: Visitation at Elora Road Christian Fellowship, November 30, 2023, 6:00pm – 9:00pm and December 1, 2023, 6:00pm – 9:00pm. Funeral at Elora Road Christian Fellowship Sunday, December 3, 2023, 3:00pm, followed by refreshments. https://www.ercf.ca/. Interment: Saturday December 2, 2023 for close friends and family at noon at Belsyde cemetery. https://maps.app.goo.gl/6vfodUtnoUhDQ9457?g_st=ic.
Contributions can be given to Friends in Action, an initiative that Mike had passionately wanted to contribute to through volunteering. https://friendsinaction.kindful.com/.
“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
– Romans 8:38-39
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