MICHAEL JAMES PENMAN

1949 - 2025

April 16, 1949 – March 29, 2025 Michael was respected and admired by all who knew him, he was a scholar (with grammatical neurosis!) whose wisdom extended far beyond books - he was a mentor, a coach, and a guiding light. With a sunny disposition that never wavered, no matter the circumstance, Michael uplifted those around him with kindness, wisdom, and infectious optimism. He helped so many of us become better people. Michael excelled in school – he was in "gifted classes," attended UTS, Trinity College (U of T), U of T Law School, and was called to the Bar in 1975. He had a brilliant mind, ever curious and wanting to learn more, especially regarding politics – there was nothing better than a lively discussion of the latest issues. However, his mother used to say that there was no point arguing with Michael – somehow he always won! He earned his strong work ethic from his father, starting part-time at 14 at Brentwood Public Library during the winter months, then caddying at Islington Golf Club in the summers. He followed family footsteps at Kodak for university tuition, articled and was made partner at Fraser & Beatty and later at Blaney McMurtry, and was an influential member of the TAGLaw group. Sports played an important role in his life. Both hockey and baseball provided him with yet another avenue to build friendships and develop skills. More importantly, they were bonds to family – his dad taking him to his hockey practices (goalies didn't have to skate as much!), as he then took sons, Rob and Cam, to theirs, with Papa watching in the stands. Not only did he teach his sons to play and understand the game of hockey, he did that for many of their childhood friends. Michael received many honours and awards for his work and volunteering with the GTHL, OHF and Hockey Canada, including the OHF's President's Award and Hockey Canada's Order of Merit. On the baseball side, he was among the original season ticket holders of the Toronto Blue Jays, organizing and managing a ticket group until recently – going to games with his dad, then his sons and his sister. The end of winter was not complete without a visit to Dunedin (Florida) to watch baseball spring training. Michael loved to explore and travel, carrying on the tradition of family trips to Southampton (ON) and Ogunquit (Maine), started by his parents and grandparents. These were his two happy places. In his 20s and 30s, he travelled all over Europe and saw the Australian Outback. And then on to summers with his children at Nor'loch Lodge on Lake of Bays. Later in life, with his loving wife, Elizabeth - Vietnam, Cambodia, Scotland and Ireland, the Caribbean, and so many more places. Michael rode an elephant, took a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, and flew in an open cockpit biplane. But what was most important to Michael were his family and his friends. He was a devoted son, an amazing big brother and much-admired cousin and nephew. He was a dedicated father who prioritized his kids' happiness and a loving husband who enjoyed every moment of his renaissance with Elizabeth. He also had a sincere interest in all people, from the Blue Jays program seller at ball games all the way to titans of Canadian industry. Michael was great at making friends, but his true talent was for keeping and nurturing those friendships. Many of his closest date back to secondary school and the "European Odyssey," as well as the Kappa Alpha fraternity and law school – none of which were yesterday! The diagnosis of posterior cortical atrophy, a rare variant of Alzheimer's disease, was accepted with grace and courage, as well as a desire to make the most of the time available. Guidance and support from Dr. Tang-Wai and Maria Martinez at the UHN Toronto Memory Clinic helped ease the journey. Special thanks go to the support team over the last several years: TJ, Andres and Guy. And most importantly, Norma and Colleen, who, with Elizabeth's love and compassion, were able to provide a safe and comfortable final year at home. Michael passed away peacefully, under the superb care of Toronto Western Hospital, surrounded by family, listening to his favourite tunes, which of course included the Beach Boys and Kingston Trio. While he will be missed beyond measure, like his father, he has provided an exemplary role model for his children and grandchildren – big shoes to fill, indeed. Lovingly remembered by his sister, Cynthea (Roman); beloved wife, Elizabeth, and their blended family of children and stepchildren, Rob (Nina), Cam (Jen), Sarah, Kevin (Lisa), Colin (Caitie); grandchildren, Cleo, Myla, Fitz, Max and Kyle; and the Ross, Speirs and Morrice family in Canada and Scotland. Loved ones and friends are invited to say farewell, share memories and reminisce at a visitation at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor Street West (at Windermere Avenue), on Friday, April 4th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. In memory of Michael, donations would be appreciated by the family, supporting the Memory Clinic at UHN Foundation. Please visit UHNfoundation.ca/tribute. Select "as directed by next of kin/obituary" when asked where to direct the gift, or call 416-603-5300. Online condolences may be made through www.turnerporter.ca.