Obituary of Michael Hayter

The family of Michael George Hayter are deeply saddened to announce his passing on September 18, 2020. Born in Amherst, NS in May of 1959, he is predeceased by the first love of his life, his mom, Elizabeth Irene Hayter, as well as his father James Francis Hayter, and his father-in-law Hubert Charles Spragg. Michael leaves behind his best friend and wife, Karen Spragg. He loved his three children, Neil Hayter (Jessie), Alyssa Vandervalk (Lewis), and Lionel Hayter (Samantha Jean) and 4 grandchildren William, Benjamin, Everett and Thomas. He is survived by his siblings Jane Kinsman (Brian) of Truro, NS, Anne Norton (Michael) of Elmsdale, NS, Kathy Morehouse (Ricky) of Miramichi, NB, Paula Keoughan (Robert) of Miramichi, NB, and Mark Hayter (Nancy) of Fort St. James, BC; his mother-in-law Ida Spragg, brother-in-law Brian Spragg (Wendy), sister-in-law Cindy Keizer (Danny) of Fredericton NB, and brother-in-law Allan Spragg (Karen) of Southampton, ON., as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Michael’s career path began in Forestry. He entered the Forestry program at UNB and graduated in 1982. This was a natural fit for him as he loved nature; trees, flowers, rocks, soil…the list goes on. He loved the smell of the earth and the soil between his fingers. Michael began a second career at the School of Medicine Dalhousie University. He graduated in 1995 and began working in private family practice in the United States. Michael arrived in Fredericton during the fall of 2007 and accepted the position of Director of the first Hospitalist Program at the DECH. He diligently, persistently, passionately, and successfully nurtured the program as well as numerous medical students and residents. Michael loved his work. He loved chatting with his patients, especially those from McAdam who were able to often share details of his mom’s life as a child. He enjoyed the challenge of providing the best care for his patients. He loved interacting with the "team": nurses, doctors, pharmacists and all the support staff. As he would tell you "this isn’t work, I am lucky to get to do this job everyday…" For your wonderful support, care, and kindness, we extend a special thank you to Dr. Sheldon Wood, Dr. Margot Burnell, numerous colleagues, nurses, family and friends. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 1:00 pm at the Smythe Street Church. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, attendance at this event will be by invitation only. A livestream broadcast will be available for those who are unable to attend. Please join us at www.ssc.church/youtube. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Dr. Everett Chalmer’s Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family.