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Michael ZENDER Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael ZENDER
47 Entries
Jason (Vibrationoftheone)
March 2, 2022
I was saddened to hear this via a friend whom also knew Michael. We met at a spiritual group. And I also got to know him whilst I lived in Kensington Market as an amazing photographer. We shared the same outlook on the vegetarian diet and I saw him at various animal rights rally's. He always was in the know where to explore a great food spot or restaurant. Helped me connect to the vegetarian society of Toronto. His photos really echo and speak to my heart capturing the joy of the artists performers and audiences. One picture in particular is one which struck me in particular. Where I had just gotten news that my grandfather died, and yet I was going out to play guitar and do the best to put a smile on my face even though I was processing a lot of sadness. When he sent me that photo it reminded me as I am feeling this right now. Our time here is precious. Our memories with those places will be indelible and etched in our mind just like how this kind soul has made us all feel welcome. And to remember to celebrate life when we can. A picture is worth a thousand words and I will always remember Michael as a generous kind heart. May you remind us to keep the love and warmth of our hearts to reach out and be kinder to each other. Share in life and stay connected through thick and thin. Blessings to you and your family.
Warren Viegas
March 2, 2022
I knew Michael a long time from the tax community. I got to know even better through the arts when I would run into him at events that featured dance and music be it Latin or African. A gentle person with a big heart and also talented with the camera, you are missed immeasurably. Rest well friend.
Elena Mamais
November 18, 2021
My dearest Michael. I have known you for many years but lost contact. Every year you would send birthday wishes on Facebook - a social media vehicle that I never used until recently. Odd that this year in particular - my spirit was edging me to reach out to you around the same time - late October - early November. Don't know if I sent the message through Facebook correctly - but I asked you to please email me so we can reconnect. I wanted to say that I missed your wit - your energy - your spirit. How devastating to be hit with the news of your passing dear heart! In Greek - we say - - May your memory be eternal - and it is Michael. Be at peace Mikha'el.
Bobby Rosenthal
November 15, 2021
David and family
I was so saddened to hear of Michael's passing. Michael was a sweet and gentle soul and the world will have a little less light in it without Michael's presence. I will miss him and his good nature. My thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.
Cheryl and Steve
November 15, 2021
We knew Michael for about a decade. We met him and befriended him through a series of spiritual workshops. We will remember eating with him at his favourite food place, The Big Carrot, and Kensington Market and going to the occasional concert. In his humorous way, he always greeted Steve as "landsman". His presence and charming smile will be sorely missed. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
His friends -- Steve and Cheryl
Mario Morello
November 15, 2021
Dear, kind, wonderful Michael,
You had such a loving and gorgeous spirit. Your creative and detailed eye knew how to catch the most human moments - little glances of the dancer, the crooked smiles of two friends interacting, the singer tilting their head in bliss. You caught and shared so much beauty, because you knew and were so much beauty...
My heart is heavy knowing that your smile and generous presence will now be in our memories. But also, that is your miraculous power - because you have touched so many, and have captured so much. There is so much of you still out there - in our hearts, in captured moments and songs and dances. In friends' words and conversations. So much beauty. So much has been painted and shared by your loving hand. By generosity and goodness.
Thank you for having gifted us by being you. And you continue to, infinitely.
With infinite warmth to accompany you, and much love,
your friend Mario.
My sincerest and deepest condolences to Sinai and the Zender family.
Rosaura Otero
November 14, 2021
He was my dear friend Sinai Castro’s love, I know she will miss him profoundly, my condolences for her and his family.
Claudia & Julian
November 14, 2021
To Sinai and the Zender family,
The news of Michael’s passing has affected me in surprisingly profound ways. When I think of Michael, the word that comes to mind is, “community;” not just in the sense of one’s immediate surroundings, but of the network of like-minded people and kindred spirits in one’s city, region, and beyond. Reflecting on knowing Michael has made me realize that dance, music, and the arts is nothing without community; nothing without local supporters and enthusiasts, such as Michael. He was always there for those of us in Toronto’s music & dance scene, and his appreciation of our efforts and performances meant a lot. For the past several days, I have been constantly awe-struck at just how many of us he photographed. He was giving, kind, funny, a pleasure to talk to, and I am shocked and saddened that such a staple of our community will no longer be at our events.
Sincere condolences.
Rocio Garcia
November 13, 2021
my deep condolence for the family and partner , I met Miguelito(Michael) more than 10 years ago he was learning spanish watching soap opera at that time , and was so fun , was nice to met such a kind and gifted man , rest in peace .
Nancy
November 13, 2021
Michael, gracias por haberme aceptado como tu roommate, por tàntas platicas compartidas, por tus consejos , por ayudarme a entender modismos en ingles y por muchas cosas màs, pero sobre todo por ese ser humano tàn especial y maravilloso que fuiste. Espero de toda corazón que encuentres paz.
Siempre te recordarè y estaràs en mi corazòn. You will be profoundly missed.
My sincere condolences to your family and Sinai.
JoAnne Frenschkowski
November 13, 2021
Dear Michael,
You have left us, but you are not truly gone. For so long as we keep our memories of you in our hearts, share our stories about you, and act with the same joy and generosity of spirit that you did, you will never be far from us. This I believe.
I send my sincere condolences to Sinai and the family and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
B
November 13, 2021
Michael faith would have it that I was blessed with your kindness and warmth not once but twice. Once through you advocating for my business at your work and another time many years later through our mutual love for live music. When I think about you I think about a man hungry for life. A man who loves building community and a man who gives love to whoever he comes across. Knowing you made my life more meaningful. Hope your energy is shinning wherever you are ❤
Amy & Brett
November 13, 2021
Dearest Michael, may your soul rest in Eternal peace. You are a brilliant man, a kind soul, a loving and caring community member, a good friend. You left us too soon. We will miss you greatly. Our deepest condolences to Sinai and all the Zander family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Sincerely, Amy & Brett
Tania Copca
November 13, 2021
Lamento profundamente tu partida, así como la tristeza de tu familia y seres queridos, que Dios nos ayude con sus bendiciones y pronta resignación
Quiero decir que agradezco mucho tu amistad y cariño, que el tiempo compartido fue genial y que siempre te recuerdo como mi amigo que decía ser mexicano por tu hospitalidad y tu amabilidad, gracias infinitas Michael y que en la siguiente vida nos volvamos a encontrar, te quiero amigo y te recordaré por siempre
Kiyo Asaoka
November 12, 2021
Michael, flamenco scenes in Toronto will be so different without you. I can’t even imagine and don’t want to imagine.
You will be so missed.
Pretty much all of my flamenco pictures are taken by you. It’s actually not only me. All the flamenco artists. And also artists of all kind of art forms. You were so good at capturing the moments.
Although you were always saying the lighting of flamenco shows is too dark and it’s hard to take pictures of, your pictures always came out so beautiful. I am so lucky to have many great pictures, thanks to you.
As I am writing, I am thinking of this picture that you took, which is one of my most favorites. The picture of me being tired and upset at a long theatre rehearsal. Even in the back stage, you didn’t miss a moment! Remember we were laughing when you showed it to me?
Michael, I hope you are resting in peace.
I am so grateful that I got to know you and will never forget how wonderful you were.
Carmen Romero
November 12, 2021
My deepest and most sincere condolences to Michael’s family and friends. He will always be apart of our artistic community and will be profoundly missed.
Donna French
November 12, 2021
There are not enough words to say what a beautiful man Michael is/was. A caring heart for our planet, defenceless animals, a great eye with the camera!! I'm so sad to hear you have left us. May your family, loved ones find the support, love to carry on. I hold the wonderful memories of you close to me. May you have found Peace dear Michael. Much love, friendship to you. So glad to have known you Michael. Donna
Puro Mexico Ballet
November 12, 2021
Puro Mexico Ballet family is deeply saddened by Michael's passing. He will always be remembered by the artistic community of Toronto and his art will be present among us. Rest In Peace.
Abby
November 12, 2021
Michael, you were a constant in the samba community. Every gig we would play I knew I would see your kind and warm smile snapping photos while enjoying the music. You kept the records of those fleeting moments in a way no one else could. I am devastated by your loss, and you will be so deeply missed. It will never be the same.
Carla
November 12, 2021
I am sending you a lot of light and love to you mi amigo Michael. I hope you are in a better place where you can be sorrounding by angels and infinite love. I am keeping all the beautiful memories i had had with you and your beautiful soul that love to help and be of services to humanity. I have no enough words to thank you for been in my life when i had needed you the most. Eternal love
Rhonda Nolan
November 12, 2021
a tender person.. beautiful thoughtful man.. a generous spirit who gave so much to his community ❤
Tracy
November 12, 2021
The world is a lot less wonderful when we lost you. Your talent of capturing the beauty of this world through your lens brought so many people joy. We will miss you. Rest In Peace.
Jeff Fisher
November 12, 2021
Michael was a loyal friend with a big heart. I looked up to him like an older brother. My heart goes out to his family and friends. I will him greatly.
Paromita Kar
November 12, 2021
Rest in peace and power. You were one of the brightest gems , supporter of the arts and friend to many. Thank you for your genererosity of spirit, and for all that you have done for the arts community and the many other communities which you have touched. We will never forget you. My deepest condolences to your family and dear ones.
Yasmina Ramzy
November 12, 2021
A bright, joyful and hugely generous spirit who could be found photographing dancers and musicians where ever it was happening about town in Toronto. I was always happy when I saw Michael in the audience with his camera. Some of my company's most exciting shots were from him. Lots of love to his family. Such a beautiful radiant soul. ❤
Sarita Leyva
November 11, 2021
Rest in peace dear friend! God grant you eternal rest and fill your spirit with light, progress and peace! My deepest condolences to his family and friends!
Descansa en paz querido amigo! Dios te conseda el descanso eterno y llene tu espiritu de luz, progreso y paz! Mis más sentidas condolencias para su familia y allegados!
Norma copca
November 11, 2021
Amigo de otras latitudes. La vida nos dió la oportunidad de conocernos, siempre la sencillez y hospitalidad fue tu esencia. Tan hospitalario y buen hombre. Siempre te recordaremos. Descansa en paz
Maria Miranda
November 11, 2021
Michael, estoy sin palabras.
Te nos fuiste muy rápido, siempre serás recordado por tu gran corazón y tus imágenes tan bellas qué reflejaban lo activa y bella qué es nuestra comunidad.
El apoyo que brindaron tus bellas imágenes ayudaron a muchos grupos comunitarios de mil formas.
Gracias Michael!
Te extrañaré y tendré siempre en mi corazón.
Que descanses en paz
Laura K
November 11, 2021
A wonderful man who was always taking amazing photos and promoting the arts with a big smile on his face. He will be greatly missed.
Jonathan Spencer
November 11, 2021
I had tremendous respect for Michael as a professional colleague at PW - smart, funny, incisive, and a great writer - with a merry twinkle in his eye. He had a great gift as photographer. I am shocked to learn of his passing at far too young an age. Hy heart goes out to you Sinai and to his family.
Jose Salgado
November 11, 2021
My deepest condolences to all his loved ones. Gone far too soon.
Rest In Peace Michael.
Lyba Spring
November 11, 2021
Michael was exceptionally generous to the music community in Toronto, sharing his marvellous photos of which he took hundreds. He kept saying, this is the last festival I'm shooting; I'm not taking my good camera to this one - but he was always there even taking videos with cell phone and sharing those on social media. He covered important climate demonstrations as well as those for animal rights. This is a terrible loss. My sincere condolences to the family.
Norma Garcia
November 11, 2021
Michael was a great sweet coincidence in my life, we share many trips together in Mexico with my cousins and friends and we always had fun. He was an adventurous guy, looking for happiness and the best places to shot the most amazing photos! He was always present, calling or writing with his special sense of humor! He will be miss by many people that touch with his friendship. Good journey and see you someday.
Rosana
November 11, 2021
We will miss you in our fight to make this world a better place to live. I am sure you will always be among us. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Linda Brown
November 11, 2021
I’m so saddened to know that Michael is gone. I knew him through music and his beautiful photography. He will be truly missed by all.
Lorie Wolf
November 11, 2021
Dear Michael,
I don't understand why you are not with us anymore. I am so sorry. I just saw your smiling face this past September and I didn't know it would be the last time we would meet.
I am grateful to have known you. I am grateful for how generous you were with your time and your photos and videos. You were such a mench-everyone knew it and everyone was always happy to see you. I'm glad I got to tell you at least that. Rest in peace, Michael Zender, artist, friend, dear man. May your memory be a blessing.
Lia Grainger
November 11, 2021
Whenever I was at some truly magical musical event in the city, in a park, on the beach, in a sweaty bar or a beautiful theatre, I'd turn around at some point, and there would be Micheal, smiling and capturing the beauty of the moment, but also taking it in at the same time. He valued the performing arts so highly and contributed to our community in such a deeply meaningful way, not just as a photographer and artist, but as kind, funny and clever friend. We will miss you very much, Michael. Your absence will be felt.
Steven Lederman
November 11, 2021
I am so saddened to learn of your passing. You were a kind, generous and extremely talented individual. We shared a love of photography and I enjoyed speaking with you at the many events that we both photographed. I will miss seeing you at events and I will miss enjoying your artistry in my social media feed.
Joanna Marshall
November 11, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of Michael’s passing. He was so lively, funny and talented in many ways. Rest In Peace, Michael.
MIkel
November 11, 2021
I was inspired to have met Michael, always with his camera shooting events and nature. Always with Sinai. A hardcore animal activist and full time vegetarian, his humanity will be remembered. RIP dear Michael.
Kaila O
November 11, 2021
Very sorry to hear of this news and I give my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Brenda North
November 11, 2021
Although I never met Michael personally, I always felt that I knew him through Sinai’s many posts and pictures. My deepest condolences to all who loved him. It seems there’s never enough time. RIP Michael.
Dalton
November 11, 2021
A very kind and gentle man . But smart and witty. I enjoyed working with Michael. I am sorry to hear of his passing
Peter McQueen
November 11, 2021
Such sad news. Michael will be missed by many. He photographed so many animal rights and music and dance events in Toronto, helping to make our city a better place. My condolences to all who knew him.
Barb Rebelo
November 11, 2021
My deepest condolences to Michael's loved ones. I knew him through the animal rights community and always knew him to be a gentle, kind, and quiet soul. The world lost a good one.
Elizabeth Beecham
November 11, 2021
The past few days I've thought a lot about Michael and as much as his passing saddens me, I've realize how many people he has touched with his many passions and on a basic human level. Looking back, I met him in the 1980s when I was a summer student working at PW and then later at EY/EYEP. He was never someone to overlook you when many others would, he saw humanity and found it interesting. I enjoyed our many sometimes heated debates, his rapier wit was challenging to match, and if he ever got started on parking enforcement that great legal mind may have prosecuted himself on more than one occasion! Thanks for teaching me how to order dim sum in Cantonese, Michael. Thanks for being a bright light in all our lives and may your memory never grow dim.
Mary-Chris Staples
November 10, 2021
I’m so sad to hear of Michael’s passing. He was always so kind and willing to support so many animal rights events through his photography. He saw the beauty in our city and he truly made the world a better place. Thank you Michael.❤
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