It is with heavy hearts and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing on of our beloved Michael Osogo Omoro on Thursday, May 23rd, 2024, at Headwaters Hospital in Orangeville, Ontario. As a family, we are devastated by this immense loss, but we find solace in the memories we shared and the love that will forever live on in our hearts.

Michael was the beloved husband of Janet Adhiambo Omoro for 35 years. His dedication to his family was steadfast, and his love for his children, Norbert Somo Omoro (Claudia), Gertrude Edna Omoro, and Georgina Sarah Omoro, knew no bounds. To his nieces and nephews, particularly Isaiah Ndenga Omoro and Stephen Mandela Omoro, Michael was not just an uncle but a mentor and a second father. When tragedy struck our family with the untimely passing of his brothers, Michael stepped in without hesitation, ensuring that each of their children received the education and opportunities they deserved. His selflessness and commitment to their well-being will forever be remembered and cherished. Known lovingly as "Kwari" to his grandchildren, Naila, Gianna, and Steve Jr., Michael treasured his time with them, always finding joy in their presence.

Born in Nairobi, Kenya, Michael was the fifth of six children to the late Mzee Norbertus and Mama Gertruda Omoro. He was a loving brother to James, the late Francis, the late Raphael, Veronica and the late Emmanuel. While we continue to mourn the loss of his brothers, we find comfort in knowing that they are together once again. Michael's belief in the importance of family was unwavering, and he carried that value with him throughout his life.

Michael understood that change was the only constant in life and approached each day with a forward-thinking mindset. Always eager to learn, he embraced the latest technology as an avid student, keeping up with the ever-evolving world. He shaped his academic foundation from his early years at Park Road Primary School to his time at Kabete Technical School and Mangu High School. He later pursued higher education at Kenyatta University, where he met his wife Janet, and went on to earn a graduate degree in Computer Science from the University of Nairobi. His love for mathematics and physics was infectious, and he found joy in sharing his knowledge during long drives, using automobiles, trains, and buses as real-life examples to engage his loved ones in captivating lessons.

In 2002, Michael embarked on a new chapter in his life, immigrating to Canada with his family. He embraced the opportunities that awaited him, and it was here that he found his true passion at Brampton Transit, where he worked as a Supervisor of Business Systems. His dedication and enthusiasm were instrumental in the success of the ZÜM Rapid Transit System, leaving an indelible mark on the community he served. Michael's passion for project and change management inspired his daughters to follow in his footsteps, and they continue to carry on his legacy in their careers.

While far away from his homeland, Michael's love for Kenya remained deep within his heart. He proudly referred to himself as a "man of the soil" and was an active member of the Kenyan Community in Ontario.

Despite facing a challenging diagnosis of a benign brain tumour (hemangiopericytoma) in 2016, Michael approached his health battles with remarkable strength and resilience. He refused to let his disabilities define him, finding humour in his circumstances and maintaining a positive outlook. This outlook continues to live on in Norbert, his son, who uses humour to connect, heal, and spread joy to those around him.

Before his diagnosis, Michael radiated health and fitness, a testament to his love for physical well-being. His time at the National Youth Service and playing Rugby at University showcased his commitment to leading an active lifestyle. However, the news of his brain tumour marked the beginning of a challenging journey. Over the course of three successive brain surgeries between 2016 and 2018, he faced numerous health complications, including dysphagia, vision and hearing challenges, and balance/mobility issues. Despite these setbacks, Michael's indomitable spirit fueled his determination to regain his strength and return to his beloved job at Brampton Transit, a place he considered his "second home."

Throughout the years, Michael's progress was nothing short of remarkable. His resilience and refusal to let his disabilities define him were a testament to the strength of the human spirit. He approached every obstacle with a comedic flair, making light of his circumstances and easing the burdens of those around him. His determination to carry on the tradition of having a dance competition with his wife Janet, despite his mobility and balance issues, brought joy and inspiration to all who witnessed it. Michael's thirst for knowledge and love for scientific challenges never wavered, engaging his daughters, Gertrude and Georgina, in thrilling scientific debates that enriched their lives.

However, it was his granddaughters, Naila and Gianna, who held an undeniable sway over him. Michael's love for them was boundless, and he believed that their innocent spirits held the key to understanding the beauty and simplicity of life. He cherished every moment spent with them, enjoying their laughter and finding joy in their presence.

On the evening of May 22nd, Michael shared moments of connection with his children, delighted in bedtime stories read by his granddaughters, and had a peaceful drive with his beloved Janet. They both enjoyed a lovely dinner, filled with laughter and the harmonious melodies of music. The following morning, surrounded by the love of his family, he crossed over to the other side, leaving behind a legacy that will forever remain in their hearts.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare teams at Toronto Western Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital, and the UHN rehabilitation centres for their care and support throughout Michael's health journey. We also extend our appreciation to Headwaters Hospital and the Community Paramedic Program in Orangeville for their compassionate assistance over the last three years. The outpouring of support from Michael's colleagues at Brampton Transit, as well as friends and family in Canada, the US, and Kenya, has meant the world to us during this difficult time. We would like to acknowledge the friendship and support of Joseph and Mildred Okil, Alloys and Matilda Odhiambo, the Corradetti Family, and Sister Florence Anaso for your true friendship and standing with the family in all our ups and downs over the years, despite the distance. Your regular phone calls and visits when you could, always made Mike’s face light up and as he would put it – “Wazee Hukumbuka.” May his beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Michael Omoro would be appreciated by the family, supporting the work of Dr. Gelareh Zadeh through UHN Foundation. Please visit the "Donations" tab below or call 416-603-5300.

For anyone who would like to make a memorial donation via cheque please make it payable to: UHN Foundation. In the memo line, or on a separate sheet of paper, please write “In Memory of Michael Omoro in support of Dr. Gelareh Zadeh’s work.”  

Mail cheque to: 
UHN Foundation 
R. Fraser Elliott Building 
5th Floor, 5S-801 
190 Elizabeth Street 
Toronto ON M5G 2C4