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84 Entries
Tom & Pat Holland
April 19, 2011
A WONDERFUL TOAST GIVEN BY TOM & PAT HOLLAND
My name is Tom Holland and this is my wife pat. We are very good friends of the family; and we feel quite privileged to speak about Michael, not just for us, but on behalf of his many friends as well.
Many of us know that one of Michael's traditions t the restaurant was to offer an "Amarula Shooter" to customers at the end of the meal. This was done on special occasions, such as when the Flames won the Stanley Cup or when Canada's hockey team won Gold at the Olympic Games.
However, the Amarula Shooter was also invoked on many other occasions by Michael;as a way of sincerely showing appreciation to his customers. He was just that kind of man.
Without any doubt, Michael's number one priority was his family. However, following this I believe that his "FRIENDS" were greatly important to him, and have played a significant role in his life as well.
I believe that Michael would really appreciate the fact, that one of his FRIENDS spoke about him publically; and I'm the lucky one that gets to do this.
First, the tremendous amount of glowing tributes that have been posted on the website clearly demonstrate that Michael was very well known, and well respected and very well liked, by many, many people. Michael was a reather interesting fellow; and he could certainly hold his own in conversations covering amost any subject. I think he aquired this skill by developing friendships with people in so many different walks of life.
His friends included Clergyment, lawyers, judges, police officers, firemen, professional athletes, educatiors, business people and many others, He would listen, ask questions, debate and in the process he learned about lots of different things.
I think one of the reasons that Mike had so many friends is that he was a very gregarious man. he liked people, he was good at making them feel welcome, and exuded confidence when serving his customers.
He certainly enjoyed humour very much, and had the best laugh of anyone that I have every heard. Michael was a bit of a teaser too; and I think down deep he kind of enjoyed being teased as well. I witnessed this first hand on many occasions. My wife pat and another friend Margaret Rasmuson are long time Oilers/Eskimos fans. Michael seemed to thoroughly enjoy "rubbing it in", when the Flames won; and he could always come up with an excuse, as to why the Flames really didn't loose, but somehow they gave the win away.
Michael loved to share experiences with others and I think he was the most generous individual that i have ever met. He always wanted to give you something; and I was the recipient on more than one occasion involving hockey. I was lucky to be able to on road trips to Chicago and Boston with Michael. he was certainly the leader on these trips. Because of his friendships, we had access to the players, the referees, and the dressing rooms, and we always had the best seats in the house.
The night before he passed away; duing a television broadcast Charlie Simmer, the former great LA Kings player, pognantly acknowledged Michael as the Flames #1 fan. Not very many fans get this kind of recognition; and it was richly deserved by Michael.
Not everyone may realize that Michael was a deeply religious man. He faithfully attended church regularly, and he tirelessly volunteered on committees and projects. And when he travelled to Cyprus, he always took the time to visit and offer support to the local monasteries. Michael was true to his beliefs, he did not talk about his religion, he practiced it.
By any and all measures, Michael was a successful man. Along with his dear wife Helen, he raised and provided for his children very well. From nothing he started, grew, and sustained a business, in a very competitive industry; he and his family travelled the world many times over, he has a beautiful home, and enabled his family to enjoy many of oife's other amenities. Michael, you can be very proud of your accomplishments.
I believe thse successes came, as a result of Michael's work ethics; which was second to none. As well, Michael was also completely trustworthy and could always be relied upon whenever needed in any situation.
Michael never did retire; he kept working full time, until he was hispitalized due to illness. For many, many years, michael (and Helen too) worked seven days a week.
Not withstanding these tireless efforts, the needs of the family were always addressed on a first priority basis. Also, values were always ahead of dollars in Michael's world.
On several occasions, Michael diclined the very lucrative opportunity to intall gambling machines in the restaurant. He felt strongly, this was not compatible, with the family values that his business stood for. GOOD FOR YOU MICHAEL.
Michael was a great guy to be around whether at Michael's restaurant, at a hockey game, at their home for Easter brunch, on a trip, or for Pat an I the many times we simply would go over to their house for coffee. Something humorous would always come up, and laughter would certainly follow.
In recent years; much of Michael's life was made even richer by his seven grandchildren. he loved them all dearly and the gentle, tender side of his personality came out when he was with them.
You can be sure michael that they loved you every bit as much, as you loved them.
In closing, we all have our won special momories and stories about Michael that were shaped by the personal relationship that we had with this
Special man. these will certainly be treasured by all of us, and will give us comfort over time.
Now I would ask you to stand as I propose a toast to Michael.
Michael was a beloved and devoted husband to Helen, A wonderful father to John and Stacey, and father in law to their spouses, Anita and David, he was a precious grandfather, a selfless and generous brother, a terrific uncle; and a sincere godfather, and last but not least, the best friend anyone could ask for.
Jobe well done my firend. To Michael
Don Nielsen
February 24, 2011
Truly sorry to hear of the great loss of a truly honourable man. Deepest condolences to the imediate and extended family, a huge loss for all who knew Michael. God bless, rest in peace.
With his brother and sisters on 4.11.2011 in Cyprus. Special day because all brothers and sisters met together
Avghoula Angelidou - Christodoulou
February 23, 2011
Michael and Panayiotis(Cyprus) summer of 2008
Avghoula Angelidou - Christodoulou
February 23, 2011
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Avghoulla Angelidou - Christodoulou
February 23, 2011
We will never forget uncle Michael. He will always live in our hearts.
Antonis, Avghoula and Panayiotis
Gail Jensen-Oulds
February 23, 2011
Dear Helen, John, Stacey & Family: We were so shocked to hear of Michael's Passing...When we heard that joking laughing voice we knew Michael was in the House...We enjoyed our times at the restaurant and how proud he was of each of you...Many memories living in the highrise across the street, birthdays and Michael offering us tickets to a Flames Game (Even though Ted was A Wings Fan)...We send our Love & Prayers...May the God of Comfort give you His Peace...Keep Going, Michael would want you to...Gail & Ted Oulds
Craig Forsberg
February 15, 2011
Michael the man made Michaels the institution it became. He always had a kind word, a smile, and/or a wave for clients new and old. My deepest condolences to the family and friends of a fine gentleman!
Dianne Clark
February 14, 2011
To the entire Batas family my heartfelt condolenses on the loss of the Patriarch of Michael's. Whenever I enjoyed a meal in the restaurant Michael would always come out before the end of the noon hour and ask each table how they enjoyed their meal. He always made you feel like you belonged there! And over the past twenty five years or so both PanCanadian and Encana staff have made Michael's a favorite!
Patrick Elliott
February 3, 2011
To the whole family I offer my deepest condolences. Michael and all of you have been a bedrock of Calgary. It continues to be one of the few resturants where you feel like you are part of the family when you come in for a wonderful meal. Michael will be greatly missed.
Dave Scott
February 2, 2011
Visiting Michael at the restaurant was certainly one of our family highlights on our trips to Calgary from Vancouver. Our deepest condolences to Helen and family.
Meeting at the restaurant allowed us to catch up with our family David & Donna Dunsmore and so many others.
Dave & Linda Scott and family
Langley, BC
Trudy and Barry Curtis
February 2, 2011
Michael, for so many years it has been a pleasure to come to your restaurant and enjoy the best kind of "home style" meal. Your warm and generous personality infused everything you did, and we will miss you deeply. Your smile and the twinkle in your eye will live on in our memories.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family now, as they regretfully let you go.
Christine Allon
February 2, 2011
Dear Helen, Stacey and John and families
We were very sad to hear of your loss. Michael senior will certainly be missed but he lives on in the hearts that love him.
Hugs from Christine & Robin (in Canberra)
February 2, 2011
Kathy Stathonikos
February 1, 2011
Uncle Michael,
From the moment i met you and Theia Lini you were nothing but kind, welcoming and generous.
I thank you for making me always feel like a valued and true member of your wonderful family.
Theia Lini, John and Stacey, my thoughts and prayers are with you and Spyro and I are here for whatever you need.
Love Katerina
February 1, 2011
Our deepest condolences to all of you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Talarico Family (Alberta Cheese Company)
Carey and Jasmin Dumonceaux
February 1, 2011
Dear Stacey and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Elizabeth Chatelain
February 1, 2011
To my dear, dear family in Calgary,
My heart is with you all, especially today.
As you stand before the mountains this afternoon, look around - his spirit lives on in each of you....take comfort and pride in that.
Have a cognac for me tonight,
Love Liz
February 1, 2011
February 1, 2011
February 1, 2011
Domina Ioakim
February 1, 2011
To aunty Helen,cousins John,Stacey and families.
Uncle Michael will be deeply missed by the whole family.To me he was a second father,a man who gave me love and guidance,to Andrew he was like a big brother,sitting back and enjoying a greek coffee,chatting the afternoon away every time he came home to us in Australia. To our 4 boys he was a man they grew up respecting, a great-uncle they adored. The boys loved teasing him about his " oh boy ",he would give them a stern look and then burst into laughter. Memories of uncle Michael will be in our hearts forever.We will always be there for all of you.
Andrew & Domina, Harry , Mouna & baby Andrew, Peter, Timothy and Nicholas Ioakim.
Yiannis & Eva Mitilineos
February 1, 2011
No one can forget that big personality with the trademark moustache who kept wanting to shake people's hands! You will be dearly missed! Our sincere condolences for the loss of a great man.
Dewey Lodewyk
January 31, 2011
Helen, John and Stacey and families.
Our sincere condolences on the loss of a husband and a father. We have wonderful memories of dining many times at "the best pizza restaurant" in Calgary with our kids and grandkids. The atmosphere was always warm, friendly and hospitable.
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Dewey & Tova Lodewyk, Lisa and Leroy Timmermans & family, Dave & Ingrid & family.
Jim & Rose Postnikoff
January 31, 2011
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
January 31, 2011
Helen, John and Stacey. We have such wonderful memories of Michael. Our hockey boys were made to feel so special with their hockey pictures on the Wall of Fame at Michael's Restaurant. Michael was so interested in their minor hockey careers and gave them some very wise advice on sport and life in general. He will never be forgotten. We know that his talks with the boys, on numerous occasions as we ate our pizza, will guide them for many many years. We share in your sorrow and also in the memories of a beautiful man.
Bill and Marilyn Oldfield, Brett and Michael
January 31, 2011
John, Anita and kids: Wishing you deepest of sympathies at this time. Michael had such a warm smile that we will always remember. Thoughts and prayers with you.
Marina and Bruce Cathcart(old 48th Avenue Neighbors)
January 31, 2011
"May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead."...unknown author
Kristin & Steve Finot
January 31, 2011
We are so very sorry to hear of your loss, and please know the entire family is in our thoughts and prayers.
"God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be. So He put His arms around you and whispered "come to me." With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hardworking hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best."...author unknown
January 31, 2011
Helen John & Stacey.Deepest sympathy to you all . Michael will be deeply missed in so many ways. Always enjoyed our visits to his Pizza Place. His laugh ⌣ were so infectious.ThoughTs & prayers are with you all. Mack & Evelyn Hardee
Spyros Stathonikos
January 31, 2011
To my beloved uncle, words cannot describe how much i will miss you.
From the day i moved back to Calgary you always took a keen interest in how i was doing in school, made sure my grades were up to snuff :) and always schooled me in your own way, with your many years of knowledge and wisdom, and you were there throughout the important milestones in my life, always with a smile on your face and pride in your eyes, especially when Kathy and i were married, you treated her as part of the family from the very beginning.
I will never forget the hand squeezing competitions we would always have and the fact that you would always beat me by saying "c'mon whimp is that all you've got?" and also the many Flames games i went to with you the past couple of years. I will always keep those memories close to my heart.
At the end of the day, i could always count on you being there for me and my family.
To Auntie Helen, Stacey and my Nono John, i know how tough these days going forward will be. Always know that myself, Kathy and Yianna will be there for anything you will ever need.
I love you lots Theio and will truly miss you.
Love, your nephew
Spyro
Deanna Mullan
January 31, 2011
Stacey, there are no words that can relieve that pain and grief the loss of a father brings. Heartfelt thoughts and prayer go out to you. May you gain strength and understanding as his light continues to shine through you and your family.
January 31, 2011
I want to express my deepest sympathies to John and the family! Your father was a wonderful guy and your buisness has brought many comforts to many people. I am very sorry to hear of your loss you guys are in our thougts and prayers!
Chris Moss (PanCanadian EnCana)
Josephine & Harry Papadopoulos
January 31, 2011
Uncle Michael,... friendship, compassion and fun flowed through your veins. You fit 28 hours into each day, when most only fit 10. Your "you are kidding" eyes smiled cheekily and teasingly. Your roar of a laugh engulfed us, warmed our souls and made us smile. Most and foremost, you breathed love.
There is now a void, but you left behind many tons of memories and a beautiful, larger family. The only thing that comforts us, is to know that you are in a better place.
Aunt Helen, John, Stacey and our little cousins, we wish we could be there with you . Definitely our thoughts and love are. Josephine, Harry and the girls
Sandra, Dave & Chelsea Weicker
January 30, 2011
Helen, John & Stacey,
We are so sorry for your loss. Michael was a true gem of a man who will be greatly missed. Take comfort in the wonderful memories that you have of time spent together.
Take good care,
January 30, 2011
Dearest Helen,John and Stacey. We are now in Australia on vacation and have been told by friends in Calgary that Micheal had passed away. Our family are very sorry for your loss . He will be missed by all and will be remembered as an uncle to our children and a great friend to us.
Take care.
Bruce and Kathy Stotesbury
January 30, 2011
HELEN JOHN AND STACEY WE ARE SO SORY FOR THE LOST OF MICHAELS HE WAS THE BEST FRIEND FOR MY FAMILY SILIPITIRIA FROM ME AND MINA
January 30, 2011
We were saddened to hear of the loss of our friend,and fine gentleman Michael. The entire Gus Vlahos family wish to exdend their sincere condolences to Helen, John and Stacey.
Please accept our deepest sympathy at this time of sorrow. Michael will be very missed by everyone in our Community.
Love and memories never die.
May his memory be eternal.
The Gus Vlahos Family
Joanne Gallant
January 29, 2011
Dear Helen, John and Stacey. I am very saddened to hear of the loss of such a fine gentleman as Michael. Since 1992, I have enjoyed Michael's jokes, stories and friendship. He was very friendly and kind and had a great sense of humor. Please accept my deepest sympathy at this time of sorrow. Michael will be very missed by everyone who goes to Michael's. Please remember too, that
'Tho life and time go swiftly by,
Love and memories never die.
author unknown
Joanne Gallant
(sm #19)
January 29, 2011
Dear Stacey and Family,
We are sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Jeff and Kathy Dela Cruz
Tim Silbernagel
January 29, 2011
Dear John and family,
My condolences to you at this time of loss. I shall never forget the image of your father cheering behind the bench when the Flames scored. Love and peace to your family...
Anne and Michael Harrop
January 29, 2011
Helen, Stacey, John and all the family: You are constantly in our thoughts as we share your sorrow.
Michael was a good and generous friend and someone who was devoted to his family. He leaves behind many happy memories that will sustain you and all those who knew him in the coming years.
Danielle Chatelain
January 29, 2011
To my wonderful family in Calgary, I am thinking of you and praying during this difficult time. He will be missed very much.
Sharon Niedermaier
January 29, 2011
Our condolences to Helen and family. Michael will surely be missed with his bigger than life spirit and generosity.
John and Sharon Niedermaier
January 29, 2011
Dear Stacey and Family
We are so sorry for your loss. During our short visit to Calgary we experienced your father's wonderful hospitality at first hand. We hope you all find some measure of comfort in all the well deserved tributes that have been paid to Michael. Our thoughts are with you.
Love Ella and John Semple
Spain
Dawn Thompson
January 28, 2011
Calgary has indeed lost a treasure. Starting some 30 years ago, the old Downtown Co-op gang would gather at Michaels, sometimes at lunch and often after work. The Co-op has been gone for many years, but our love for Michael's Restaurant and the gentle giant who ensured EVERY customer was treated as family will never be gone. Please accept my family's heartfelt sympathy at the loss of this wonderful man. I looked around the restaurant tonight and his presence will always be there.
God Bless you Helen, John, Stacey & family. To say he will be missed is an understatement.
The Thompson's
Keith, Dawn, Matthew & Dan
January 28, 2011
Dear Helen, John, Stacey and families,
Our sincere condolences in the passing of your beloved husband, father and pappous. We all loved visiting the restaurant for the fantastic pizza (and candy jar)and to share in the company of your family! Michael always had time to chat and talk hockey. One never left the restaurant without a large smile on one's face and a warm feeling of belonging! His pride and love for his family was always most evident. Michael's generous spirit shall be missed.
Dawn,Jim,Joel and Katherine
Monica Stensland
January 28, 2011
Dear Stacey,John,Helen and families,
Your in my thoughts and prayers at this
time. I am so sorry for your loss.
Take Care, Love Monica
January 28, 2011
Dear Stacey and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We hope you can take comfort in
all the memories you have shared together...
Love Sheila and David
Barb Delurey
January 28, 2011
Deepest Sympathy to the Batas & Harrop families. My Thoughts & Prayers are with you all at this time. Cherish the wonderful memories! I know God will give you Strength when He think you need it.
Barb Delurey
karen tumbach
January 28, 2011
Dear Helen and Family
We wanted to share with you all how priveleged our family has been to have known Michael. From the very first welcoming pizza experience back in 1985, to the lollipops that were somehow always there for our children, our lives are better having known Michael....he will be missed.
Sincerely,
Karen, Mark, David and Alexis Tumbach,
currently in Hawaii
Annette Snow
January 28, 2011
Stacey, I can't imagine the deep sadness you and your family are enduring after the passing of your dad. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are for all of you to be close and hold each other up, and that the grief you feel now soon subsides and transforms into treasured memories for you all. God bless,
January 28, 2011
Dear Stacey and family,
May the love of family and friends carry you through your grief. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love Christy
Alan & Joy Seatter
January 28, 2011
Dear Helen, John, Stacy and your families,
Our heartfelt condolences for Michael's passing. Though gone from this earth he will live forever in our cherished memories.
Until we meet again my friend!
David & LouAnn Williams
January 28, 2011
Helen, John and Stacey,
Though we all knew this day was coming, it's never easy when it happens. I've been a regular at your restaurant since 1986, and enjoyed visiting with Michael and listening to his stories. His spirit will live on in each of you, and so many of us that were touched by his gregarious and friendly ways.
pat holland
January 28, 2011
Michael was a wonderful friend and will be missed so much.He was so proud of his family and you gave him so much joy. His pride and warmth will leave special memories forever.He was a man who left his mark with anyone who met him.Gentle giant you will missed. We will treasure our friendship with Helen,Stacey,Dave,John,Anita and children. Love Tom, Pat, Pam, Chris, Amir ,Sofia.
Mariane Musschoot
January 28, 2011
Dear Helen, John, Stacey and family;
My heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Michael was a treat to talk to at all the family functions. I will miss him.
You are all in my thoughts.
Mariane Musschoot
January 28, 2011
Helen John and Stacy and families,
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of Michael
Marilyn Bogner and Family
January 28, 2011
Dear Helen, John, Stacey and families,
Our deepest sympathies for the loss of Michael. We were very saddened to hear the news. He was a true gentleman with a golden heart, which will continue to live on through all of you. We were thankful to have known him, and our thoughts and prayers are with you now, and in the future.
Georgia Coudounairs and Family
Sydney - Australia
Zahir Manji
January 27, 2011
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Michael. My thoughts and prayers goes out to Helen, Stacey, John and family at this moment of sorrow.
Annie Douglas
January 27, 2011
Helen, John and Anita, Stacey and Dave and all the young ones...my deepest sympathy at Michael's (physical) passing. I don't feel he's gone far...he lives on in our hearts and memories, and is only a thought away.
Your family wrapped me in a warm, welcoming embrace from the first time I met you, and you extended that warmth and love to Stuart, Mum and Estelle too.
To Michael, and to you all - thank you for your love, friendship and a lifetime of fun, happy memories.
God bless and rest in peace, Michael.
January 27, 2011
Stacey and Family,
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of such a dear man, husband, father and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Love Wayne and Stacey
January 27, 2011
Please accept my sincere condolences. My thoughts are with you.
Audrey Newbury
Currently in San Jose del Cabo
Neal and Jen Aguilar
January 27, 2011
Stacey, we would like to send our deepest sympathies to you and your family. We are thinking of you. XXXX
sally curtis
January 27, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with Stacey and all your family at such a sad time.
Love from the Curtis and Harrop families in England xxxx
Ron Asselstine
January 27, 2011
A message of sincere condolences and fond memories of Michael from Ron Asselstine and Andy Van Hellemond to Mike's dear wife, Helen, and family. Fondly remembering a big man with a huge heart who loved his family above all. Thanks to you all for sharing him with his brothers in the NHLOA.
Derek Duclos
January 27, 2011
My Family would like to extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family. I was very sad to hear about Michael, he was such a wonderful and generous person. I have very fond memories of him during my visits to Calgary, his generosity and hospitality ensured my visits there was best experience it could be. He will always be in my memories.
January 27, 2011
January 27, 2011
Mom and Baba's love will last an eternity
January 27, 2011
January 27, 2011
To Helen, John, and Stacey: Please know that Nancy and I were quite saddened to hear of Michael's recent passing.
I have many fond memories of our hockeytalk filled luncheons while I was visiting Calgary for the Flames' games. That ever present face with the character moustache was always recognizable from ice level and on occasion, I may have even witnessed him cheering for the Home team!!
Sleep well my friend and may God bless all. Leon & Nancy Stickle
Alan Hern
January 26, 2011
Helen, John, Stacey and family. My deepest sympathy at the loss of Michael. I have been eating the house pizza there for 30 years. My most fond memory was Michael inviting me to a Flames game and the police giving us a ride in the paddy wagon with the lights on. The Flames even won that nite. He will be sadly missed by all but his legacy of great food, pizza and family will live onwards. Had the pizza today, still the best in the city.
January 26, 2011
Helen and family, I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Michael. I have many fond memories of myself and the rest of the crew having our pre-game meal with Michael and talkin hockey. Thank-you for always taking care of us. Many thoughts and prayers to you. May God Bless.
Dan Marouelli, Orillia, Ontario
Margot & Neil Harris
January 26, 2011
Helen, John, Stacey and family: We are truly saddened to hear the news of Michael. We have very fond memories of enjoying our caesar salad and #3 listening to Michael talk hockey and tell stories. He will be missed!
Jodie Butler
January 26, 2011
Mrs. Batas, John and Stacey.
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Batas. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this very difficult time. The Batas family and this city have truly lost a very special man. The seats behind the Flames bench have never been the same!
Ian Andrews
January 26, 2011
It's a very sad day for everyone who knew Micheal. My entrie family who litterly grew up at Micheal's sends our sincere condolences to Helen, John and Stacey and their ever growing family. My hand has never been the same since we first met over 20 years ago!
Lynn Houle
January 26, 2011
Bob and I were saddened to hear of Michael's passing. His larger than life personality will be missed by all who had the privilege to meet him. We have so many fond memories of our times together....the fun...the laughter!!!
"When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure" ....author unknown
Tom & Georgina Dunsmore
January 26, 2011
Helen, John & Stacey: We are so sorry to hear that Michael has passed away and send our deepest sympathies. Michael was one of those characters that was larger than life with his magical laugh and his signature mustache. He had the talent and personality that made you feel so welcome and that you had just made his day by arriving to the restaurant. We have many memories of your family and Michael. You are in our thoughts.
Toni Henderson
January 26, 2011
My sincere condolences to you and your family, may he rest in peace.
January 26, 2011
Helen, John & Stacey:
Those of us with the L.A. Kings are sorry to hear of the passing of Michael. We always enjoyed visiting your restaurant not only for the good food but to have fun visiting with you and Michael. I'll always remember that great deep laugh he had.
All of us send our deepest sympathies.
Bob Miller L.A. Kings
Tony Tripolitis
January 26, 2011
calgary has lost another true icon!!my time with michael and his family was short but memorable!!he was a great man,proud of his family,and surely proud of his pizza!!Over the years ive worked for/with some great and influential families ,yours truly was one of them!!!youve always been an inspiration,i guess thats why i also make a great pizza. Im deeply saddened and you will truly be missed!!rest in peace my old friend and your memories be everlasting!!To MRS.HELEN,JOHN,STACEY AND FAMILY, Sorry for your loss my thought and prayers are with you!may you find comfort in eachother!
Kevin Meininger
January 26, 2011
Mrs. Batas, John and Stacey: I was first introduced to all of you by Jiggs McDonald when I first started producing the Islanders back in 1987. I took great pride in introducing each new generation of Islanders--my own staff, the new p.r. guys, young players, and even my own wife on one memorable trip--to Michael and your wonderful restaurant. It was the highlight of every hockey season to return to Calgary and to Michael's for warm hospitality and great food, but more than that for the always lively conversation. The conversations often continued late in the night as the always hospitable Michael drove us back to our hotel, talking hockey all the way through the frigid, snowy Calgary night! He will truly be missed. I hope you all find comfort at this time in your memories of him and the memories of all of us whose lives he touched.
January 26, 2011
I'm going to miss your gregarious personality, your hospitality, the tons of stories you had and experienced from our sports world and the place you set in your restaurant that made it feel like home.
I started working here in Calgary in 1987 and one of the first places I went to with my co-workers was Michaels Pizza - it was a favourite destination of many of our colleagues from PanCanadian. The pizza was always one of the best in the city, still is - but what kept me coming back was this giant of a mans personality and his engaging stories. We watched key Olympic events, Flames hockey and the best was matches like Canada vs Russia - great memories! We shared a lot of co-workers buy-outs, celebrations and even my own stag.
Thank you Michael, thanks for the good times.
- God rest your soul.
My sympathys to all of Michaels family.
Take care guys.
Stavro.
January 26, 2011
Dearest Mrs. Batas, John and Stacey:
May you be comforted in knowing that your beloved husband and father is no longer in Earthly pain, but existing in abundant love and light. The essence of who he is will be with you always. Remember his loving smile and wonderful laugh, and the beautiful spirit he will always be. Find comfort in one another. Much love, Litsa Condon Konicki & Family.
"Jiggs" McDonald
January 26, 2011
I will treasure the memories of time spent with Michael just talking hockey and how he loved his family just a little more than his Flames. My deepest condolences to his wonderful family. I am so sorry for your loss.
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How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Michael Batas's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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