On Thursday, August 9, 2012, Michelle C. Holmes, Etobicoke, formerly of Palgrave, in her 44th year, loving daughter of Mary-Anne and Michael (deceased) Holmes and step-daughter of Ted Clark. Sister and friend to Kristen and Jeremy Warbeck. Adoring aunt of Maren. Michelle sadly has succumbed to cancer, having fought through this journey with grace and laughter. She achieved many personal goals through the constant help and guidance of friends and family.
The family will receive their friends at the Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen Street S. (Hwy. 50), Bolton (905-857-2213) Monday afternoon 2 – 4 and evening 7 – 9 o’clock. Funeral service will be held in the chapel on Tuesday morning, August 14 at 11 o’clock. Followed by cremation.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to Bethell Hospice Foundation, P.O. Box 75, Inglewood L7C 2L6. Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Jack and Eileen Hendry
Shelley is in a better place now – no more pain! You are in our thoughts!!
Bill and Beth Austin
Mary-Anne and Ted and family – we wish to express our sincere sympathy on the loss of Michelle. We are thinking of you at this time and are happy to do anything that would be of any help to you.
We send our love and understanding to all.
Sincerely, Bill and Beth
LeRoy Peach
It is with deep sympathy that I offer condolences from the East Coast.
Michelle is in the Everlasting Arms where no sorrow, no anxiety, no pain may touch her.
LeRoy Peach
Tracy Grover
Krissey, Jeremy, Maren, Mary-Anne & Ted,
Our thoughts are with you all at this time. Michelle will be terribly missed but we all have great memories of our time with her to keep with us forever. We’re here for you.
Love,
Tracy & Rob
Barbara and Bill Estabrooks
Mary-Anne, Ted and family,
We are so sorry for you loss.
You have been an inspiration to your friends and neighbours in the Stonecroft community during this difficult chapter in Michelle’s life.
May she rest in peace.
Barb abd Bill
Randy and Linda Grover
Krissey, Jer and Family
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of Michelle. Our prayers and thoughts are with you as Michelle
moves on to her new peaceful world.
Mary Beth and Ken McCabe
We are terribly sad for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this difficult time. Mary-Anne, words cannot express how difficult it is to lose a child. Please let us know if we can help you in any way. MB and Ken
Kris Harrison
My friend, Michelle died last night. We weren’t particularly close but I’ve known her since grade 1. It still hurts because when you’ve known someone that long it’s almost like they’re extended family whether you’ve stayed in touch or not. We went to the same elementary school, high school and university always within each other’s sights but never too close. She won athlete of the year in high school. We played on teams together, took classes together and even mixed socially from time to time, amongst mutual friends.
I remember watching the infamous Wimbledon match between McEnroe and Bjorg with Michelle and her dad in her basement…I remember visiting each other a lot after school because we lived in the same neighbourhood. We played together often …taking Ben (my dog) for walks in the fields. We acted silly, and goofed around with Tammy and Wendy (who lived in the same neighbourhood). We do have lots of fond memories.
I wish when I saw her last, I had made more of an effort to let her know that she had a special place in my heart. A friend’s a friend, whether it is today or from 30 years ago.
I remember the days of our innocence most, of just being silly, fun-loving kids. You called me “Bert” because of my skinny, scrawny arms. Later in high school you called me other things I didn’t really like especially Still, your intention was always just good fun.
I’ll miss your smile and I’ll miss you. I lost a part of my extended family last night. I’ll always remember our time together fondly and with love.
To your mom and Krissy, while your loss is unbelievably sad, I wish you nothing but fond memories of MIchelle and your time with her. I hope you know that Michelle was loved and respected by many.
Your friend always,
Kris Harrison
Jodi & Ryan Swanzey
Michelle was always a ray of sunshine where ever she went. We first met Michelle in Ski Patrol, she came out to patrol with us at nights, then, as our friendship grew, cottage weekends were our big get togethers with the gang. Her talents always astounded us. Her cooking, amazed us, and her taste for wine, helped us – for entertaining of course. Her smile, her jokes, and her passion for life will be missed. Michelle made many of our lives better, in more ways than one.
Our sincere condolences,
Jodi & Ryan
kelly flood
On behalf of the Flood family (Lesley, Michael, Kelly and Sharon) please accept our sincerest condolences. We wish you peace in your hearts during this most difficult time and send hugs from afar.
Michelle…yours will be the brightest star in the sky.
Katie, Herbert and Sebastian Godinez
My love, prayers and thoughts go out to your entire family. Michelle was so special to all of us and I will never forget her laughter and funny stories. I truly thought of her as an inspiring women, and will always remember her that way.
My love to all of you.
Helene Martis
I have known Michelle for the 7 years I have worked at the WSIB. She was a wonderful person always with her big smile. We will all miss you as part of the Prevention Family. My love and rest in peace. Helene
Steve & Luana Onisto
Safe journey Michelle. You taught us about contribution to life… Unselfish, creative, joyful and warmth were your trademarks. You will be missed… Condolences go out to your family at this difficult time.
Rumina DiValentin
It is with great saddness that I write this tonight. My husband and I visited with Michelle about 3 weeks ago. Michelle and I worked together for the last 6 years. When we saw her, being the Michelle she was, we were greeted with her infamous smile and it was Michelle that was making us laugh and cracking jokes. In her work, she was a perfectionist, dedicated and passionate.
She beamed when she spoke of her niece and “Auggie”. Michelle was an inspiration as she fought this battle, and she never gave up. I learned many a thing from her about what beer goes with what food, what cheese with what wine, but most importantly, I have learned how one can look adversity in the eye, and take it on with grace and humor.
You will be truly missed Michelle
Rumina
Darlene & Ernie Crowe
Ernie and I are so sorry to hear about the loss of Michelle. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Ted at this terrible time. She is suffering no more.
Darlene & Ernie Crowe
Rainer Koziolek
I knew Michelle all through high school and remember her with fondness as someone who always had a smile for everyone. My deepest sympathies, and may her spirit and memory live on in all of those lucky enough to have known her.
Catherine Pelletier
Mary Anne and family.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss!
May you find comfort in knowing
that Michelle is now free from pain and is now in heaven and
smiling down on you all.
With deepest sympathy!
Catherine
Helga (Kannstadter) Wybrow
I am very saddened to hear of Michelle’s passing. I too remember her well from High School. She was a spirited athlete and an intelligent young woman. I’m sorry we only reconnected through social media as opposed to seeing each other in person after all these years.
My sincere condolences to the entire family and close friends of such a lovely woman.
Rest peacefully Michelle.
Helga
Mara Bullock
I still have the sweatshirt that Michelle made for the Humberview Senior Girls Basketball team. She truly was a genorous, gifted artist and a good basketball guard to boot! My condolences to all of Michelle’s family and friends.
Jim & Mary Clark
Mary and I are so sorry for your loss. Although we never met Michelle, we know what kind of person you are and believe she was just like you. You have brought a lot of joy to Ted. I am sure he will be there to help you through this sad time. Our sincere condolences.
Alex and Edwina Bell
Mary Anne, Ted and Family,
We offer our sincere sympathy for the loss of your precious daughter and sister. Her passing will not be easy for you. However, your support, love and caring for Michelle during this difficult journey should bring you comfort. We know that you will keep all your memories of her safely tucked away so they can be remembered and cherished.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Alex and Edwina
Joan & Al McLennan
Dear Mary Ann and Ted please accept our sincerest condolences
on the passing of Michele. We know this is a very difficult time for you
but please remember that you are not alone and that you and Michelle will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Joan & Al
Irene Cemas and Stefan Kash
We’ve lost a dear friend and “Auntie”, but Michelle left us with many wonderful memories to ease our sadness. We spent an evening recalling all the happiness and wonderful crazy times that we shared.
When I met Michelle at YFGH, 15 years ago, we quickly became friends. She was a leader, a great teacher, and always knew how to coax the best out of people. She fostered clever debate and loved to push her limits. She knew how to encourage work mates and her friends to face their challenges (even if she had to bend the truth a bit to get a nervous novice skier safely down a Black Diamond run!)
Michelle was always there to celebrate our victories with kind words, a bottle of wine and wonderful meals. She was a “foodie” who always knew about a new restaurant to enjoy. We stole many recipes from each other but she always won on presentation. Who knew that biscotti could look so beautiful!
Michelle’s creativity had no limits. When at YFGH she transformed the paediatric floor into an underwater world by spray painting the walls with a mural in a rainbow of colours. The kids were delighted. Michelle enjoyed photography and we enjoyed her photos. She could capture a child’s smile with ease, made lizards look lovely, made wild mushrooms and fields of weeds look magical. Such a keen creative eye. Over the years, she also taught us the beauty of wrapping a gift for someone you love. She carefully selected baubles, feathers and bows to adorn her packages. I’ll remember to do the same for those I love. Simple things that mean so much; Michelle was good at that.
Michelle had a soft spot for kids. She was happy to tell stories about all the little ones in her life, especially the antics of her sweetie pie Maren. She spent countless hours teaching our children crazy crafts, how to recycle odds and ends into treasured Christmas angels, painting dolls beds and transforming tool boxes into art caddies. She always made us remember the joys of being like kids and having fun. We have memories of nature walks, doney whackers, playground mischief and art show treasures. Our children loved their wonderful Auntie Shellie and are better people for knowing her. We all are.
Michelle enjoyed life, laughter, art, music, fine food and wine, the great outdoors, sport, family and friends. We are all blessed to have shared these with her. Our love goes out to her family at this difficult time and her friends are in our thoughts. Find some comfort in knowing that she is again with her father Michael, resting peacefully.
Our deepest condolences,
Irene, Stefan, Madeleine and Michael
Ken & Jennie Mulholland
We are deeply sorry to hear about the passing of Shelley on Thursday. Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss….our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. She is at peace……
Ken & Jennie
Paul & Vicky O'Connor
Mary Anne, Ted and family:
Our sincere condolences.
Please know that caring thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Bridge Ramdewar
I was very saddened and shocked to hear of Michelle’s illness. I know that she has done a lot to make the most of life while she was fighting a good battle.
My deepest sympathy to all her family and friends for this loss. I will sincerely miss her as a colleague at work.
Nelly Velissariou
I had the pleasure of not only meeting Michelle but to have worked closely with her at the WSIB….she was one of our Safety Group Consultants and was actually the very first one that I was introduced to….she was so full of life, always smiled and cracked jokes & always made my day with all her stories….I will miss her dearly…my deepest condolences to Michelle’s family!!!!!!
Angela Shryane
Mary Anne, Ted and Krissy and your entire family, my heartfelt sympathies to you all.
I will always remember Michelle with her warm bubbly smile and her stories of her travels and of course of her precious Maren.
Her courageous fight is an inspiration for us all.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Angela
Bev & Aldo
So sorry to hear this news. Our thoughts are with you as you remember the good times.
Aldo & Bev
Caroline & Andrew Stringer
Mary Ann, Ted and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
Sandy & Mike Polvere
Mary-Ann, Krissey and families: We were so very sorry to hear about Shelley’s passing. She will always hold a special place in our hearts and the gift she left for all of us is all the wonderful memories. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Much love from Sandy & Mike.
Brian & Janet Schooley
Mary-Anne & Ted, we are so sorry to hear about your daughter. We offer you our deepest sympathy. Thinking of you.
Brian & Janet
Kathy Morrison
My deepest sympathies to Michelle’s family. I skied for many years with Michelle at blue mountain in collingwood and shared many amazing fun times. She was an incredible lady, helpful, warm and always had a smile on her face. She always had a kind word for everyone. She will be greatly missed. Thinking of you at this difficult time .
Marilyn Copeland
MaryAnne and Krissey and families. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. My sincere sympathy. Sorry I can’t be at the service.
Melanie and Edwin Cherkes
We are so sorry for your loss. At this difficult time please remember you are not alone and we are here for you anytime. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Heather Legault
Dear Mary-Anne, Ted and family,
We are so sorry to hear that Shelley lost her battle to cancer. We didn’t know her but from everything I have read about her here, she sounds like a very happy, carefree, funny, creative and athletic woman who did everything with excellence. In fact she sounds very much like you Mary-Anne. You must be very proud of her accomplishments in so many areas of her life, and of her enduring friendships.
I really wish we could attend the funeral but unfortunately both of us have prior commitments on Tuesday which cannot be changed. I look forward to visiting with you later in the week.
We are thinking of you and your whole family at this time,
Heather and Peter Legault
ron mawditt
I was very sad to hear of your loss. I have wonderful memories of our time together on the ski patrol where her smile and joyfulness filled everyones days. We will all miss her.
Don & Debbi Stewart
Mary-Anne and Ted, our condolences go out to you and your family in this most difficult time.
Marianne Wigle
I’ve known Michelle from the Running Room. She was always a bright, happy fun loving, adventurous gal. Quick to smile and made friends easily. She was a true inspiration to all who knew her. She was a reluctant role model on how to face cancer with humour and a positive attitude. We will all miss her dearly.
My condolences to her family and her dear friends.
Jill McGovern Burnie
Mary Anne, I send sympathy and prayers to you and your family.
May your many loving memories of Shelley be a lasting treasure of your lives together.
Jill
Nina Fazari WSiB
I was very sad to hear of Michelle’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Rest in peace, Michelle
Nina Fazari
I was very sad to hear of Michelle’s passing. She will be truly missed by her colleagues at the WSIB.
My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.
Lynne & Ivan Gardilcic
Krissey and Mary-Anne, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sheila Tutty
Dear Kristen and Family,
I was so sad to read in the paper about Michelle. I have fond memories of her playing every sport with such intensity and competitiveness and the wonderful artistic talent that she painted on every sweatshirt that came into Humberview. My thoughts are with you at this time.
Sheila Tutty
Wayne Baker
I am very sorry to see such a wonderful, pleasant person depart at such a young age.
Richard and Betty Anne Durrer
Dear Mary Anne
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter at such a young age. We cannot begin to imagine how hard it must be for a parent to lose their child. It isn’t what we expect to happen. Know that we are here for you anytime you need someone to talk to or just be with. Hoping both you and Ted find comfort with your friends in the months ahead.
Richard & Betty Anne Durrer
Tom Laird
My deepest condolences. Michelle was a favorite friend and Ski Patroler. I will miss her constant smile and laughter.
Jack & Marjan Billing
Dear Mary-Anne & Ted
So sorry to hear of Shelley’s passing. May you find comfort in many happy memories. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Jack & Marjan
Elaine and Ron Lewis
Dear Mary- Anne and Ted, we are so sorry to learn of your loss. Michelle would have such a special place in your hearts, and we hope that over time you will have thoughts of her that will bring you some comfort. Please know that our love and prayers are with you both. Your neighbours, Ron and Elaine Lewis
Cara Tavares (Owen)
Our deepest sympathy to Michelle’s family at this time, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I knew Michelle in High School and will always remember her energy and smile, and the awesome air brushing she could do. She was very talented and full of life. We hope with all your suffering Michelle, you are in a better place now, Cara, Tony, Sam and Anthony Tavares
Tammy Smith
I met Michelle through the Running Room. We went from sharing cold Saturday mornings to racing side by side. She kept me laughing and motivated with her tenacious and vibrant attitude. When the nicer weather came, we’d take in Jazz-fest or a Thai dinner. There was always so much to talk about – families, friends, books, travels… I will miss her. My sincerest condolences go out to her family and close friends. She will be missed.
Tammy Smith
Wendy Shaw
I am so very sad to hear of Michelle’s passing. Sending my sincerest condolences to Mary anne, Krissy and the rest of Michelle’s family & friends at this difficult time.
Michelle, I have such fond memories of growing up in Palgrave with you – walking home from school, skating on gibson’s lake, dancing in the basement; camping out all summer in each other back yard, inventing ‘gourmet’ dishes in the kitchen; waiting for the school bus; camp fire sing alongs; canoe trips; and mischievous weekends away. I am so very grateful to have shared that time with you my friend. Rest in Peace.
Steven and Genevieve Sone
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Michelle’s family and friends. She will be missed by all who had the pleasure to meet and know her.
Our heartfelt sympathies to all.
Ilene Stones
I first got to know Michelle through her Dad – I worked for him at the Workplace Health and Safety Agency. Mike was a storyteller and his favourites were about his daughters. He was so proud of them.
Then I got to know Michelle herself at the WSIB. She was passionate about health and safety and making a difference. And she did make a difference. A big difference.
I will always remember her dropping by my desk and having a chat and always a laugh.
May she be at peace. May her passion for life be an inspiration to us all. .
Rick and Linda Kieswetter
Dear Mary Ann and Ted,
We are very sorry to hear of the passing of your lovely Michelle. Just hearing you speak about her made us feel we knew her. As the pain of losing Michelle lessens, you will find comfort in your memories. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Our deepest sympathy.
Rick and Linda Kieswetter
Maria Capistrano
My sincerest condolences to Michelle’s family and friends. She will be missed. May God keep her in His Grace.
David Connolly and Sharon Brennan
Dear Mary Anne and Ted,
We extend our sincerest condolences on the passing of your daughter Michelle. We are unable to comprehend the loss you are experiencing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Dave and Sharon
Fred L. Creed
I met Michelle while I was an instructor for WSIB. (I had worked with her dad Michael Holmes from 1993 to 1995). Michelle was a delight to work with and was always ready to give me help in my teaching methods and courses. It is really sad to hear of her passing. Please take comfort in fact that she was so gracious and kind to other people. I am sure that she will be missed by all of her family and friends.
Debbie and Jim McCannell
Michelle you will truly be missed by many. Michelle was such a loving, caring, and generous person. I shall miss those Christmas cards with all the “stuff” that used to pop out of them. I will carry on her tradition and “play it forward”. Deepest sympathies to all and may she rest in peace and know she was loved by many.
Carol McLeod (VandenBoom)
Mary-Anne, Krissy and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss, for all of our loss, with the passing of Michelle. I was fortunate to call Michelle a friend since elementary school – and can honestly say that her sense of humour and competitive spirit never wained, even up to just a few short weeks ago. She was still Michelle, full of life and joy in her eyes to just be – present – despite what her body was going through. I will never forget how absolutely brave she was.
My deepest condolences,
Carol McLeod
Cheryl & Barry Selwood
Sending our sincere regrets at this sad time. We did not know Michelle but reading all these messages you soon learn she was a happy, fun loving spirit who faced this most difficult journey with bravery! She will sadly be missed but never forgotton. Condolences to your family and all her dear friends!
Geoff Trickett and family
It is with the deep sadness that I offer my sincere condolences to Michelle’s family and friends. Michelle was a truly amazing person. I knew Michelle throughout high school at “The View”. Although we lost touch over the years, I’m proud to say I fell head over heels in love for this talented athlete, gifted artist, and joyous individual. I can remember so many fond memories spent with Michelle…tennis in Palgrave, canoeing trips, Badminton on the hard courts, music concerts at Canada’s Wonderland, and Friday nights for “Miami Vice” under the watchful eyes of Mary-Anne and Michael. Michelle was always a very kind and caring soul and she will live on in the memories of all those who knew her.
Rest in peace Michelle, you will be missed.
Carol Divitkos
My deepest condolences go out to Michelle’s family.
Michelle was a great woman, with very interesting stories. We always knew when Michelle was in the office. Her smile lit up the entire 11th floor @ WSIB.
We will all miss you very much Michelle. Rest In Peace.
Your friend
Carol
Sheri and Jay Robinson
Michelle is truly going to be missed by so many. I met Michelle through friends at our annual cottage weekend. I looked forward to seeing her each year as she would always have a new hobby to share, and new foods to try. She was so creative and had so many funny stories to tell. She loved the outdoors, good food and wine and especially her family and friends! Cottage weekend just won’t be the same without you Michelle. We are going to miss you.Our condolences to your family and friends.
Sheri and Jay Robinson
Sarah Greer and Scott Perfonic
Krissey, Jeremy and Family,
I am so incrediubly sorry to hear of Michelle’s passing. I can not imagine what you are going through at this time trying to make sense of this. I only met Michelle once, but she had your same comforting and contagious smile. My heart goes out to you and your family, please keep your hearts full of all of the warm and loving memories you share with Michelle.
All our Love,
Sarah and Scott.
Anne Steele
Dear Mary-Anne and Ted,
We have been thinking of you over the past weeks and are very sorry to hear your news. May your sadness be comforted by wonderful memories of Michelle.
Bill and Anne Steele
Stonecroft Cares - Caring Concern
Stonecroft Cares – Caring Concern wishes to extend heartfelt sympathy on behalf of all your friends and neighbours at Stonecroft in the loss of your dear Michelle.
A donation in Michelle’s memory will be made to the Bethel Hospice Foundation by Stonecroft Cares.
Keith Mashinter
I extend my deepest sympathy to Michelle’s family for the loss of such a warm, talented, and engaging spirit. I knew Michelle from Humberview and within the last couple of years reconnected with her through facebook, also meeting to exchange travel stories over some pints and visit common friends. It’s sad to see such a good soul leave us but a relief for her to be free from pain. Rest in peace, Michelle.
Peter & Theresa Kamka
We offer our deepest condolences to the family on Michelle’s passing. I have known Michelle from the time she was a toddler but my fondest memory was a camping trip to the French River with her father Michael, Michelle and my cousin from Germany. My cousin was infatuated with Michelle and it took Mike and my best efforts to keep them apart. Although many hardships plagued this trip, it was the best of times with Michelle’s bannock topping the list. Rest in peace!
Brian King and Family
Mitch was a large part of my life. High School, University, Canoe Trips, Skiing, England, Canada’s Wonderland, Beer and Wine. Distance kept us apart the last few years, but when we did trade emails Michelle was always more interested in how things were going for me, giving me advice and support, rather than talking about what she was going through, but that was how she always was.
You made the world and the people you came in contact with better.
All my love Michelle, I am glad we will always be friends.
Brian
Lawrence Medas
Rest In Peace Michelle and thanks for being a mentor and always being there to take those late evening telephone calls so that we could conference. I appreciate your point of view about work, family (love for your sister and niece) and life. I admire your strength, fortitude and courage. Until we meet again, God Bless!
Carmela Coffa
My condolences, a tragic loss . I worked with Michelle since 2008. She was always helpful and encouraging . She did such a great job organizing our program procedures and templates , I am so grateful for her efforts ! I am also so grateful that I was able to thank Michelle in person for this recently and she beamed . She truly loved her work and spoke so foundly of the program even during our last conversation . It was a pleasure to know and work with Michelle. I will miss her . Xox Carmela
Jeffrey Fox
I have reflected a lot over the last couple of days on Michelle and our friendship over the last three decades. We grew up together from kindergarten through to high school and then reconnecting recently as adults. She was truly an amazing person, who excelled at everything, but her compassion and sincere interest in others is what stood out the most to me. I will genuinely miss Michelle! On behalf of the Fox family we wish Michelle a safe adventure on this the next adventure of her kind and warm soul.
Dennis Bromwich
Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear. Please accept our sincerest condolences on the passing of Michelle. Dennis Bromwich & Family.
Heidemarie&Reinhard Voigt
Death leaves a Heartache no one can heal, love leave a Memory no one can steal. Rest in Peace.
Our deepest Condolences to the Familie and Friends
Cathy Best
We had the great pleasure to meet Michelle through ski patrol. Over the years we came to know her and feel extremely blessed for this opportunity. Her passion for life, wonderful sense of humour and amazing sense of adventure were traits she demonstrated in everything she did. Her life, although too short, was purposeful and filled with love.
Our deepest sympathy to Michelle’s family and friends. She will be greatly missed.
Cathy & Scott Best
Mary De Pompa
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My heartfelt condolences to the family. I did not know Michelle but work with many who do and have heard great things about her and her spirit.
May God comfort you all at this incredibly sad time.
You are in my prayers.
Rest in peace Michelle.
Richard & Ann Langridge
We are so very sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts are with the family. Biff still has shirts that Michelle air brushed for him and very fond memories. She will be missed.
Jennifer Searles
So sorry to hear of the loss of Michelle.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Jen
Elaine Ruprecht
Dear Mary Anne, Ted & Kristen and Family,
Please accept our condolences and sympathy today. We only just heard of the passing of Michelle. Our thoughts and blessings are with you and yours on this day.
Take care and God bless
Elaine, Leo, Dana & Alison Ruprecht
Cathi Carr
My deepest sympathy on the loss of Michelle – she was a wonderful, talented and dedicated woman, respected and loved by her colleagues and friends. We are all depply saddened by her passing
Antony & Josie Jordun
We met “Shelley” through her close friends not that long ago. She will be missed by all – whoever had a chance to spend a moment with her knew that she was full of life and love.
Michelle shared that joy with her infectious smile, her stories, adventures and her art of giving. Perhaps her greatest gift is that she was a doer, that rare inspirational human being that was not afraid of life and lived it …
Thanks Shelley!
Antony, Josie and Kira
Linda Hopkins
Mary-Anne
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter, Michelle. I know it was a long hard time for all of you before this.
I did not hear till late Monday, and could not attend the service.
Please accept my condolences.
I will pray for you, as you go through this difficult time.
Linda Hopkins
Shelley Bennett Smilsky
If time could stand still, I could restart the clock where last year I had taken you up on that coffee! I regret not reconnecting in person these last few years and yet the memories I have of Michelle are so vivid.I remember her vibrant eyes and beautiful smile while competing side by side in many sports. To be honest I think it was her strength and determination to do her absolute best and never quit that I admired from the start. I can only imagine how hard Michelle’s battle has been but I know from experience that she would of tackled every challenge head on. Michelle touched many with her tenderness and compassion and most of all her infectious laugh.
I would like to send our condolences and heart filled best wishes from my family to yours.
Blessings,
Shelley and David, Lucas, Nathan and Mitchell
Joan Benjamin
Michelle was my dear friend and colleague. (So hard to use the past tense). We met at the WSIB more than 10 years ago. We shared so much it is hardly possible to count the ways that I will miss her.
Our wonderful wine tasting events – she had the nose and me the palate – smuggling an extra wine glass from a “terroir” event – how sinful. . . but the fun. . . wandering down University Avenue on a spring evening tipsy, giggling and laughing. Ohh the memories!!
Our delicious lunches and dinners, Winterlicious, Summerlicious, her place or my place. The humble coffee at Starbucks or the long and memorable breakfasts at Mitiz’s – she always had my home fries.
Cat sitting her wild and crazy cat “Auggie”, Jazz in the Beach, swans by the lake, Sunday walks, browsing craft shows, her “Oh Mi god” collection of necklaces. When we coveted the others fancy piece we would say we would “yellow sticky” them.
The question “What are you reading?” was always worth a half hour discussion, “What are you cooking?” was worth at least 45 minutes, “What are you up to?” well, that could be hours.
Her thoughtful mementos are on my bulletin board at work and in my kitchen at home. Christmas cards and birthday cards in that distinctive Michelle script.
Always keen to offer an opinion, tackle thorny issues, I loved her passion, her sometimes controversial position; these attributes made her a great friend. I will truly miss her but not mourn her; she touched my life in best way.
Sincere condolences to Mary Anne, Ted, Kristen, Jeremy and Maren. Michelle’s star will shine brillantly for years to come.
Kathleen Brinkman
For Mary Anne, Kristen and Jeremy – I am the one who went to a Circ du Soleil performance with you and Michelle.
I worked with Michelle at WSIB. We were designing a new computer system for the Prevention Safety Groups program and Michelle brought valuable perspectives and creative ideas to the design. It was quite fun to listen to Michelle’s ideas of what a computer system should be able to do for her. Michelle believed in Health and Safety and facilitated her groups fairly.
Our working relationship blossomed into friendship. Michelle’s main passion was her family including her late father and her chosen extended family. She absolutely loved and enjoyed the children she had in her life.
Michelle loved her food, wine, beer, laughing, opinions, art, sports, jewellery etc. Michelle also loved to travel – we shared a carefree weekend at the trailer and a great trip to New York. I always enjoyed her travel stories. Michelle was fearless is trying new things. We both went on a bit too long about dates we had had yet we always had the patience to listen to another angle or perspective.
It is sad to think of Michelle not being here anymore yet it is good that she is no longer in pain. I am blessed to have had her in my life.
My condolences go out to Michelle’s family in this difficult time.
Kathleen Brinkman
Bob Dahmer and Joyce Young
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your daughter.
Hold fast the wonderful memories and perhaps you will find some comfort .
Bob and Joyce
Karen Ward
I met Michelle through the Running Room. She was so much fun, a bright shining star amongst us. Her artistic talents dazzled us at the Midsummer’s Night Run where she painted the arms, legs and faces of the participants. Her warmth, humor and kindness will be missed by all. My deepest sympathy to her family and friends.
Sandy Alyman
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your daughter, sister and auntie. We have had the pleasure of working with Michelle over the past few years. Michelle taught us so much not just from a professional perspective but personally as well. I think that I can speak for all who had the pleasure of working with and knowing Michelle that her strength, positive attitude and committment made her a very unique person who will be sadly missed.
Janis Daly
I met Michelle when she began working in certification at the WSIB. She was completely and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that First Aid training was treated respectfully and seriously in the Province of Ontario. It brings a smile and a tear to my eye remembering her studying for her courses at Ryerson U after a long workday, always with a blues music CD on. It worked because she graduated from the course in record time!
Although not here in the physical sense, at a spiritual level Michelle is always here – cherished and deeply loved and one of a kind. All my condolences to her beloved family.