It is with profound sadness and gratitude for an extraordinary life that we announce the passing of a beloved husband, Tato and Dido – Michael Pelensky.

“Misko” passed away peacefully Saturday morning after complications following heart surgery. He leaves behind his cherished wife and partner, best friend and soulmate of almost 50 years Nadia (nee Lojowsky,), daughters Tanya Pelensky (Derek Lachance), Adria Pruchnicky (Adrian Pruchnicky) and three beautiful grandchildren Luka, Deanna and Rayisa. He also leaves behind his sister Ann Helen Shklar (the late Zenon Shklar) along with their families. He is predeceased by his parents Maria “Mima” Pelensky (nee Kalymon) and Eustachy Pelensky.

Michael was born in Wolka Tarnawska, Ukraine, in 1941, which was occupied at the time by the Soviet Union. With WWII underway in Eastern Europe, the family fled from their home in Komarno, Ukraine. As the war continued, the family headed west into Europe and finally immigrated to Canada and settled in Toronto. He spoke several languages and played multiple musical instruments, including the trombone and piano.

Michael is a proud graduate of St. Michael’s College School in Toronto. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in French Literature from the University of Detroit and subsequently finished his LLB at Osgoode Law School.

Michael was Senior Legal Counsel in the firm Prousky, Lindzon and Biback and specialized in business law, mortgage, foreclosures, real estate and higher finance law. He then continued his private practice to include corporate law and estate law until his retirement in 2012. His business acumen drew him to purchase and manage many real estate properties over the years, and he continued to invest well into his golden years.

Michael was a lifelong member of Plast Ukrainian Youth Association of Canada and a member of the fraternity “Vovkulaky”. He was a strong believer like much of his family in the need for commitment, involvement and dedication in one's community. He was politically active and had a keen interest and knowledge of history. He enjoyed singing around the campfire with friends and dancing at formal events like Malankas and Weddings. It was at a friend's wedding where he asked a girl to dance, and she would become the love of his life, wife and soulmate.

“Misko” will be remembered for his larger than life persona, anecdotes and advice that would immediately captivate the whole room. He was a man of his word and even as his health declined, he continued to support and care for those he loved most. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.

Vichnaya Pamyat!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Plast Youth Organization or Svitlychka Nursery School.

Livestream of the Funeral Mass on Dec 17, 2020 at 10:30am - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU8_ZEJ-NvJQgupjQiDclqw/live