KENNETH CREAL

1927 - 2024

Surrounded by family and love, Reverend K.H. Michael Creal C.M. died with the same dignity and grace that characterized his life well lived. Born on a kitchen table in Grenfell, Saskatchewan on October 4, 1927, he passed peacefully in Toronto on August 23, 2024 at Kensington Hospice. Leaving cherished wife Lee, former wife Dottie (predeceased), parents Rev. Howard Creal and Colina (predeceased), cherished brother of Murray (Jane) and Margaret (Fritz), both predeceased. He is survived by children Marg (Stan), Mari, Liz (Tony), stepsons Chris (predeceased, (Carrie)), Paul and niece Cathy (George); grandchildren Alex (Eric), Emma (Allen), Lucas (Tessa), Reid, Lauren (Tasha), great-grandchildren Molly, Olivia, Adelaide Michaela and Mae, nieces and nephews Stephen (Elizabeth), Catriona (Murph), Paul (Jean), Alix (Denis), Dick (Nancy) and their families. Ordained a priest of the Anglican Church in Niagara, Michael worked in education with the Anglican Church of Canada and turned to teaching, first at Glendon College and then at York University in the 1960's. He fulfilled senior administrative roles including Chair of the Division of Humanities, Master of Vanier College (1974-82), was awarded Professor Emeritus and was a long-time member of the York faculty Oldtimers hockey team, retiring in his 80's. Michael was involved in the founding of York's internationally renowned Centre for Refugee Studies. Teaching and sports were great passions along with his advocacy for the marginalized in our community. Always an optimist, he was a die-hard Leafs fan. A steadfast member of Toronto's Church of the Holy Trinity, Michael participated in many initiatives to support historically marginalized people, particularly refugees. He was a founder of the Sanctuary Coalition. Michael and Lee were also cofounders of Sanctuary North, a rural site which gives refugees the opportunity to spend time together in a safe setting near Algonquin Park. Michael was invested as a member of the Order of Canada in a private ceremony for his humanitarian work, particularly in the refugee community. Special thanks to Kensington Hospice health care workers for their respectful and compassionate care of Michael. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Sanctuary North (https://www.sanctuarynorth.ca) or to the Charity of Your Choice. The family will receive friends at Church of the Holy Trinity, 10 Trinity Square, Toronto, from 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 5th and a service of Celebration of Life will follow at 12:00 p.m. followed by a reception. A link to the funeral can be viewed at http://www.holytrinity.to/. Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.