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Michael John MANZA Obituary

MANZA, Michael John - August 27, 1955 - August 4, 2017 It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Michael on August 4, 2017 at St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, at the age of 61. He left this earth, peacefully and surrounded by his loved ones. Michael will be forever cherished by his loving wife and soulmate, Dawn (nee Boomhour) and precious sons Christopher (Shelly) and Ryan (Jenn). Adored grandpa to Aiden, Cayley and Koa. Beloved baby brother to Sherry and Peter (Marie) and uncle to Kim, Kelly and Brent. Treasured son-in-law to Eleanor Boomhour (late Robert) and brother-in-law to Alison. Sadly missed by Uncle Johnny (Archangela), numerous cousins, family and friends. Predeceased by his parents Peter and Marie (Daniels). His extraordinary career expanded from Toronto - New Zealand (Weta) - California (DreamWorks), Vancouver (Pixar) and back home. Michael leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a Visual Effects/Lighting Artist, Photographer and Artist. Contributed to award-winning films: Lord the Rings Trilogy, Shrek 2-4 and many others. Most recently he was an avid street photographer: mobilepicart.com Michael was generous, funny and genuine. He was a storyteller and a kid at heart with a passion for life and love. Michael's energy was contagious. He loved making people laugh and was such a bright light on this earth. The world just got a little bit dimmer. Michael loved bringing people together and to fulfill his request, a Celebration of Michael's Life will be held on Friday, August 18, 2017, from 4-8 p.m. at Elephant & Castle (212 King St. W., Toronto). Donations may be made in his memory to VIBE Arts at vibearts.ca Michael's memory will live on in our hearts forever.

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Published by Toronto Star on Aug. 13, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael John MANZA

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16 Entries

Marge Bornais

August 22, 2017

Michael and Dawn were like family in my W.Coast home away from home. From rooftop bubbles to Euchre hilarity, we formed our unofficial easterners on the Westcoast chapter. Michael and Dawn were ALWAYS together and would often be found strolling Santa Monica on foot and shared a laugh whenever we crossed paths. Michael's talent and passion...his love for art, beauty and Dawn was boundless and he put that fervor into every day of his life. I'm visiting SM as I write this and can't believe how much your spirit lives on here. Much love to you both.

Jo Sommers

August 22, 2017

Michael had a very big heart and it touched everyone who met him. He was funny, charming and loved life - most of all he loved Dawn. Sending much love to you Dawn. Especially today on your birthday. xxx

Gary Drisdelle

August 18, 2017

It was an absolute honour to know Mike and celebrate food, company, and life whenever our wives, best friends from way back, arranged to get together. You know those guys who don't say much...Mike was the opposite, lots to say, and never shy about it, and nothing fake about it. He never sugar coated anything, expcept maybe some of his delicious creations, which always made his stories and opinions riveting. He will certainly be missed but never, ever forgotten!

Tammy Smith

August 17, 2017

Truly a life well lived. Although far too short, Mike's life was an example of adventure, passion, love, and joy. I remember evenings of cocktails, laughs over chicken wings, and, best of all, a wonderful visit with Mike and Dawn in New Zealand, where Mike surprised me with an extra ticket to the LOTR 2 launch party. He will be missed.

George Purchmajer

August 14, 2017

I only had the fortune of meeting Mike once but l am grateful to him and his brother Peter for helping my wife through a difficult time when she was a teenager many yeats ago before l even knew her, at an early age he was already a wonderful giving person. thank you

Kurt Denny

August 14, 2017

I've known Dawn for 30 years and I remember when Michael came into her life. I remember how happy she was and how well they complimented one another. Every couple has their own dance and what a dance they had! Michaels passion for the arts led them on a grand adventure across the globe and back again. I remember times spent with Michael and his enthusiasm to share his "aha" moments whether it be about his profession, his life or those intimate moments he captured in his photography. What I will miss most about Michael is how much he loved my dear friend Dawn and his commitment Watching the two of them was often comedic. He had the perfect timing with her and you could see how much he loved her. Michael was a genuine guy who wasn't afraid to express how he felt. I will always remember his generosity and his passion for life. Rest in peace Michael. You'll be so missed.

August 13, 2017

I knew Michael & Dawn from their time in New Zealand. He was always so full of fun and such a genuinely nice guy.
Taken too soon, much love to Dawn and family. Babette

John Vickers

August 13, 2017

Micheal brought many laughs to a lot of people, especially the 17 Catchers. He was certainly one of the good guys

August 13, 2017

Mike brought a smile too many people. He was certainly one of the good guys. Rest in piece Mike.
John Vickers

Harry Shulman

August 13, 2017

Our deepest sympathy to Michael's family. Martha and I did not know Michael personally, but we share his family's grief and sorrow. The best and brightest often seem to leave us too soon.

Shari (Pepper) Pryce

August 13, 2017

Dawn and I have been friends for 30 years and I remember when she and Mike met many years ago. We had many great times all together; most recently when Mike made Dawn and I dinner in their condo downtown Toronto followed by cocktails on the roof top over looking the city lights. Then there was the time Mike and Dawn surprised me and took me to Vegas when I went to visit them in California. Mike was always so warm and welcoming. He had a big heart. He will be sadly missed. Xoxo

Tammie Williams

August 13, 2017

I have never had the honour of meeting Mike, but I feel I know him by the stories My Husband has shared. Mike was like a father to Him and I am sure a great influence. May He Rest in Peace and His Memories Live on through His Children, Grand Children and Friends.. ❤ Tammie

Wendi Phillips

August 13, 2017

My heart breaks to hear this news. To Mike's family and loved ones, I am sending all my love, support and strength... May those lovely memories of the good times with Mike give you the strength to get through these unspeakably tough times. I will see you on Friday, Dawn, but in the meantime, hugs to my sweet Fraggle. xoxo

Barbara

August 13, 2017

Rest in peace Michael

Sandra Slade

August 13, 2017

Mike was a long time friend of mine and will always stay dear to my heart. I will miss you my dear friend. Love S xo

Lorraine Rea (nee Dunleavey)

August 13, 2017

Dear Manza family. I am truly saddened to learn of the loss of Michael. I knew Michael in Grade 11 at Wexford. He was very handsome with his long dark layered hair and a great dancer. Mike was a very nice person. I am truly sorry for your loss.

Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results

Memorial Events
for Michael John MANZA

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