It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Michael. After a long and brave fight, Michael lost his battle with non-Hogkins lymphoma on March 2. He passed peacefully at Vancouver Hospice with his children and family at his side. Michael is predeceased by his father Remo (Ray) and his brother Matthew, and he is survived by his two daughters, Emma and Nicole, his mother Jane, brother Ray, sister Angela (Jeff), aunts Cathy Gardner and Lena Pastega, and all of their families. Michael was born and raised in Vancouver and graduated from Vancouver College and UBC. He was an exceptional athlete who played for the UBC Thunderbirds and was drafted by the Calgary Stampeders. Known to his friends as "Toro", he was regarded as one of the top offensive linemen to ever come out of BC. After an unexpected knee injury cut short his athletic career, Michael obtained a Master's Degree in Education and devoted his life to teaching and coaching high school students. A true warrior to the end, Michael fought his disease with courage and dignity. His huge heart and love for his family, especially for his children, will never be forgotten. He will be missed by all those who knew him. A heartfelt thank you to the doctors, nurses, and care aids that helped Michael over the years, especially those at St. Paul's Hospital and Vancouver Hospice.