Peacefully, on the morning of Tuesday, January 28, 2025, of natural causes.
Michael and his beloved siblings, John (Jean), Celia, Bernadine "Bunny" (Edmund), Theresa (Pat), Paul (Linda), Bernard (Ines) and Sylvester were raised in Niagara Falls.
He met his beautiful wife, Huguette Dagenais, after she asked him to a high school dance – he accepted after asking friends if she was a looker
(they assured him she was).
Michael went to medical school at the University of Toronto and started his career as a general practitioner in Niagara Falls. With Huguette, and the first four of what would soon be eight children, he moved to Toronto where he obtained a degree in psychiatry. He had a long and esteemed career as a psychiatrist, including his own independent clinical practice, as well as a term as Head of Psychiatry at Etobicoke General Hospital/William Osler Heath Care Centre.
Michael was an accomplished pianist, and it seems fitting that his 88 years mirrors the 88 keys of the instrument he loved so much. He and Huguette hosted many parties at their home in Mississauga, always involving a boisterous sing-along around the piano. Michael was the life of the party and was beloved for his humour and generosity.
A cherished husband, father and grandfather, he was predeceased by Huguette (d. 2020), his loving wife of 60 years; his beloved son, Brendan (d. 1978); and grandson, Peter (d. 2021). He leaves behind his children, Kevin (Carol), Theresa (Keith), Monique (Jym), Michael (Annette), James (Jenny), Rebecca (Matt) and Cecilia (Michael); brother-in-law, André (Janet); as well as 21 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
Michael will be greatly missed and remembered as a man of faith who loved music, movies, wine, parties – and above all, his family. Anyone who was fortunate enough to spend time with Mike would agree there will never be another like him.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association. Online condolences may be made through www.turnerporter.ca.