1949 – 2026
With heavy hearts, the family of Michael Allen Guptill announce his passing at the Grand Manan Hospital on August 8, 2026, following a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. Michael was born on December 4, 1949, in Grand Manan, New Brunswick, to the late May and Glendon Guptill. He grew up surrounded by a large and loving family, alongside his eight siblings, and Grand Manan would remain the place he was proud to call home throughout his life.
In addition to his parents, Michael was predeceased by his loving partner of 27 years, Linda Worthen, his brothers Morris Guptill & Murray Guptill and his sisters Vonnie Zwicker and Margarite Gallagher.
Michael graduated in 1968 and, at just 18 years old, began what would become a lifelong career on the water as a fisherman. In 1978, his son Evan was born, followed by his daughter Candace in 1980, and Michael took great pride in being a father. While raising his family, Michael started his own scallop business, which he successfully operated for six years. He later purchased two more fishing boats and continued to make his living on the water, becoming a well-respected and successful fisherman. The sea was a significant part of Michael’s life, and he spent many years doing what he loved.
Upon retiring from fishing, Michael began a new chapter with Cooke Aquaculture. He built many wonderful friendships there and especially enjoyed his time working in the rope shed. When he wasn’t on the water, Michael could often be found with his hands busy with a woodworking project. He had a natural talent for working with wood and became quite skilled at creating and fixing things. Some of his happiest times were spent with his brother Dave, clearing land, enjoying the view and sharing the long conversations that come so naturally when you have nowhere else you need to be.
Michael was a quiet, gentle man who found happiness in the simple things. He loved his children, his grandchildren, his kitties, the outdoors, and spending time doing the things he enjoyed. He didn’t need much to make him happy.
In recent years, Michael and his former wife, Shelly, found their way to a wonderful friendship. They remained an important part of each other’s lives, sharing many laughs and plenty of adventures. Michael’s love of finding a good deal on Marketplace became somewhat legendary, often resulting in a message to Candace or Shelly asking them to go pick up his latest treasure. Those little requests became some of the moments and memories they will cherish most.
Michael will be deeply missed by his children, Evan and Candace, his stepchildren Kyla Marsters and Donna Higgins, his grandchildren Dakota, Riley and Chase, his former wife and dear friend Shelly, and his surviving siblings: Betty Farnsworth , Audrey (Russell) Foster, David (Maurice) Guptill, and Buddy (Annette) Guptill, along with many extended family members, friends, and members of the community who knew and loved him.
Michael lived a simple life, and he preferred it that way. He was happiest in a pair of jeans and a T-shirt or a cozy hoodie. Comfort always mattered more to him than formality, and he would want those who come to celebrate his life to feel comfortable too.
In Michael’s honor, we invite you to come as you are. Wear your jeans, your favourite T-shirt, a hoodie, or whatever makes you feel most comfortable. There is no need to dress up for Michael. Your presence, your memories, and your love are what matter most.
As we say goodbye to a quiet man who left a lasting mark on the people and place he loved, we are reminded:
“We’re all just walking each other home.”
The family would like to say a big thank you to the staff of Coastal Transport, the staff of the Grand Manan Hospital and the Extra Mural nurses. Your kindness made this difficult time easier to bare.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Phillip Ells Jr. Memorial Funeral Center, a service of Humphrey’s Funeral Home.
Visitation will take place at Immanuel Family Church on Tuesday August 11 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8:00pm.
The funeral will take place August 12 at the church at 1:00 pm with Pastor Michael Campbell officiating.
