Michael Pare was born in 1925 and was educated at Marlborough College and Cambridge University. He worked at the Maudsley Hospital before coming to St Bartholomew's. During his time at St Bartholomew's he was awarded a research scholarship to work in the National Institute of Mental Health in the USA, where he worked with Kety, world famous leader, in biological research and psychiatry. He returned to St Bartholomew's on completion of this period of study and continued his main interest in the treatment of affective disorders and made significant contributions to research in this field.

He served as treasurer of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (1979-1986) and was very successful in this endeavour. He was awarded the Honorary Fellowship of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the highest honour it can bestow. He was also MB BCh (Cambridge); MA (Cambridge); FRCP (London); MD (Cambridge); and DPM (London). He served as Secretary and, later, Chairman of the Papers and Discussions Committee, 1961-1977. Michael was the author of many books on psychiatry and in addition he wrote over 50 papers and chapters in books, mainly on causes and treatment of depression.

Michael Pare had a friendly and jovial personality. He became a proficient golfer and represented the Medical Golfing Society, which went to the USA to play the Americans.

Michael died on 3 July 2002 and leaves a widow, Barbara, and three children, Jane, Caroline and Christopher.