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Michael KUSNER Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael KUSNER
13 Entries
Loretta Swan
July 23, 2019
Sherrill,
My condolences
It is still difficult to accept that Michael has passed and the following comments are my thoughts and experiences as one of his support staff members.
Michael was a person that upon meeting or observing was not easily forgotten. He had an energetic spirit that always left an impression. Dynamic, determined, forward thinking, fearless and extremely charming were some of the qualities that in my opinion would best describe him.
He had a strong understanding of human nature that served him well. Michael could sense the strengths and weaknesses of others and thus motivate, guide, protect, and lead. He was a fierce defender of the School's faculty, staff, students and program when contentious issues arose within the University's administration or from external sources.
He was not afraid to show all the elements of his emotional makeup whether it was anger, frustration, joy, sorrow, compassion, charm or humility.
As a staff member, I learned to appreciate the way in which Michael would voice his criticism or displeasure but not hold a grudge. I often described it as shot between the eyes but never stabbed in the back. There was always time to share a laugh, listen to tales of South Africa, chat about his love of dogs and cats and hear about his children's accomplishments.
In thinking about Michael this evening, I recall the words from an old song. the Lion sleeps tonight
Regards
Loretta Swan
July 14, 2019
My condolences to Michael's family. We had many good years together a Ryerson. I very much appreciated his part in my planning career.
Paul Bruer
July 14, 2019
My condolences to Michael's family. We had many good years together at Ryerson. I appreciated his part in my planning career.
Paul Bruer
July 12, 2019
Dear Sherrill,
Please accept my deepest condolences on Michael's passing. I will remember him always for his passion and wit, and most especially for his wonderful kindness towards Jen and David. He will be sadly missed.
Valerie Chiu
July 12, 2019
I was a student of Michael's in the graduating class of 1982. Michael served as my thesis adviser and as such spent considerable time with him in my graduating year. I very much appreciated his candor and wit.
Claude Marquis
Phil Stewart
July 11, 2019
Very grateful for your professional mentorship and friendship Michael. You kindled many into fulfilling and sucessful professional careers. My condolences to your family and close friends. Phil Stewart 82'
Bill Waite
July 11, 2019
I was a student of Michael's and always enjoyed his classes (in particular discussions we would have in his Ethics class).
I also remember working with him on his nomination as a Liberal candidate.
Know that he was admired and respected by all of his students and his legacy lives on with the the work that do.
Gloria Guy
July 11, 2019
Thank you, Michael for your many kindnesses to my family over the years. It was a pleasure to know you. Rest In Peace.
Peter Szegedy-Maszak
July 10, 2019
Dear Sherrill,
Please accept my sincere condolences on Mike's passing.
His friendship meant a great deal to me, as did his mentorship when he led Ryerson's planning program. I will always be grateful to him for hiring me, for letting me serve with him on Ryerson's faculty Senate, for supporting my course content and for his unrelenting commitment to his program, faculty and students.
His many, diverse contributions to the planning profession in Canada are well known and will serve as a profound legacy for future generations of planners and their communities. I am very glad that we all had the chance to spend time together here in Washington. I am only sorry that I was unable to visit your home more recently in Toronto.
I hope that your grief is eased by fond memories of your life together. If I can be of any service to you now or in the future, please let me know. Rest assured that Michael's legacy lives on strongly in all who had the good fortune to know him.
Peter Szegedy-Maszak
Fleur Heaton
July 10, 2019
I'm so sorry to hear of my Uncle Michael's passing from his Wife Sherrill.
We have been connected for many many years. We saw each other a few times over the years. My mom and dad who are no longer living we're in touch with him and Sherril over the years.
It was great to see his accomplishments. He was a very active and creative person very glad to have had him as my uncle. I wish his children and grandchildren long life.
Love from his niece
Fleur
July 10, 2019
Thank you for all you have done Michael. Your legacy lives long after, may you rest peacefully.
July 10, 2019
We are deeply saddened by Micheal's passing. His was a life well lived and we had the good fortune to share in some of his time over the past 40 plus years. Micheal's legacy beyond his wonderful family is the influential role he played in advancing planning in Canada. There are thousands of his students that will attest to the role he played in their careers. Rest in peace friend.
Sue and Ron Keeble
Fred & Marg Robertson
July 10, 2019
Sherrill, very sorry to hear of Michael's passing. He had a distinguished career and has left his mark in life. Sincere condolences to you and the family.
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