Michael Douglas Grayson

1944 - 2022

GRAYSON, Michael Douglas April 17, 1944 - October 30, 2022 Michael passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 30, 2022 in Victoria, B.C. Predeceased by his parents, Douglas Freeman Grayson and Ruth Grace (nee Treleaven), and brother Chris. Michael is survived by his devoted partner of 32 years Lotus Johnson, his former spouse Regina and their son Aaron Grayson (granddaughter Soma), and brothers David (Sandy), Peter (Jill). Beloved by stepdaughter Sylvia (Antonio, grandson Leandro), Regina's husband Tom, her son Calen Drysdale, and five nieces and nephews. Born in Stratford, Ontario, he earned an English degree at Western University. He was a world traveller with a special fondness for India and South America. Michael moved to BC in the early 1970's where he became one of the original members of the Pennyroyal tree planting co-op, and together they planted millions of trees throughout the province. He loved gardening, hiking and taught us all how blessed nature was, delighting in the tiny details along the way. Michael had a passion for art, making collages and drawings which reflected his spirituality and playful nature. He was a scrabble aficionado and passionate reader, particularly of philosophy. He enjoyed studying the teachings of Ram Das, Gurdjieff, Rumi, and especially Buddha. Michael had a great sense of humour and sharp wit, and loved dancing to reggae and world beat with flair. Michael loved being a father, and two of the happiest days of his life were the birth of his son Aaron, and birth of his granddaughter Soma. Michael lived with Parkinson's for over 30 years, which he made the best of with the help of Lotus and his family, and Beacon Home Support before moving to long-term care. The family is grateful for the compassionate and excellent care from the nurses and staff at Harmony House at Mount St Mary Hospital, who brought him comfort in his final years. He believed in not sweating the small stuff, and living a life of joy and presence. A private gathering of family will be held this weekend, and a public celebration of life and show of Michael's art is being planned for the spring.