Michael (Mike) Bilida

Mike passed away peacefully at the University of Alberta Hospital, surrounded by family on October 23, 2025 with the assistance of MAID.

He was predeceased by his parents, Steve and Victoria (née Chizen) Bilida, brother Bill Bilida, and wife Frances (née Larmour) Bilida. He is survived by his daughters Karen (Scott) and Kim (Marc), grandchildren Victor and Corentin, his partner Patricia Chobater, as well as his friend Grant (Joyce) Pitman whom he considered a son.

Born in Radway, Alberta on December 6, 1941. Mike later moved to Edmonton, where he attended Eastglen High School and met his high school sweetheart, Frances Larmour. Mike and Fran were married on September 4, 1965.

He went on to study at the University of Arizona in Tucson, earning several degrees, including a Master’s in Kinesiology. Arizona always held a special place in his heart—he never did get used to the cold Canadian winters! Still, Mike and Fran returned to Edmonton to be near family and to start their own.

Mike began his career as a teacher before becoming a small business owner, founding Thunderbird, an injection molding plastics company. His intelligence and creativity led to the development of a wide range of products—from badminton birds to medical equipment and pipeline clamps still in use today. Mike continued to work throughout his life; with his daughter, Karen, and son-in-law, Scott, managing operations for the last few years.

Together in their life full of love, Mike and Fran built a family and a company (Thunderbird). After losing Fran far too soon to cancer, Mike was fortunate to find companionship again with Pat. They shared many happy years, enjoying athletic events and extensive travels.

Mike had many hobbies, including bowling and track and field, but he was passionate about badminton. He recently celebrated his 50 years of membership at the Derrick Club, where he trained, competed, and created cherished relationships. Mike won Gold medals in Canadian Masters singles badminton championships in 1992, 1995, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, and Gold in doubles in 2006 and 2007. Mike also traveled around the world, competing and winning the World Masters Championship title in April of 2015.

For the last two years, Mike lived at Our Parents Home, where he quickly made new friends and embraced the community spirit. His breakfast friends and Thursday’s happy hours were highlights of his days.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Mike in the Spring of 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dying With Dignity Canada or Breast Cancer Canada.

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