Michael was born in Clonmult, Cork, Ireland and passed away peacefully in his sleep after a brief illness in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Predeceased by his parents Michael and Nora (née O’Leary) Hennessy, and brothers Ted and Kevin. Survived by his beloved wife Nora ‘Susan’ of 66 years, children Anne Murray, Michael Hennessy (Maggie) and Geraldine Fleming (Frank), brothers Pierce and Sean and sister Anne. Affectionately referred to as Haha by his grandchildren Brendan, Maureen, Connor, Pierce, Kathleen, Molly and Clare, who were the light of his life. After working for a stint at the Ford motor company in Cork he left Ireland to seek his fortune and visited many exotic ports of call before stopping to work in Australia for a few years before heading to Vancouver in 1953. He was a life-long learner determined to master whatever he put his mind to. He was a champion marksman, competitive racing cyclist, avid golfer, fly fisherman, and patent holder. For many years he was one of the top producing real estate brokers in Vancouver before starting his own construction company. Hundreds of his houses are dotted around the city of Vancouver. He will be remembered for his charm and kindness, his eternal optimism and gift of the gab which captivated all who knew him. Special thanks to Banjit at Crofton Manor for her amazing care.
Prayers will be offered at Kearney Funeral Services (450 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver) on Friday, November 8th at 7:00pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday November 9th at Noon at St. John the Apostle Parish (5457 Trafalgar Street, Vancouver), celebrant Fr. Anthony Ho.
In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Vancouver Missionaries of Charity.
Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him.