Michael John Pocatello

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Michael “Mike” John Pocatello.

Born in 1941 in Toronto, Ontario, Michael was the son of Michael and Ruth Pocatello. He was predeceased by his parents and younger brother, William “Bill”.

Mike was a “guy who would try anything". He worked on highway construction, as a forestry biologist, educator, driving instructor, and in retirement as a transportation facilitator.

Michael was a master of characterization and mimicry. Some of the family favorites were his impersonations of “Mangor the Magnificent” and “Mexican Miguel”. Every year he would visit his wife’s grade 1 class as “Zero the Hero” and his arrival created great excitement for her students on the celebration of 100 Day.

He loved exploring the natural world while hiking, camping and canoeing in B.C., Alberta and Lake of the Woods (Ontario).

One of Mike’s greatest loves was hiking in the mountains. His proudest accomplishment, in his mid 70s, was completing the Skyline Trail in five days carrying a 70-lb pack.

Tragically, Michael was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in his early 80’s. He continued to bravely exercise but this neurological disease robbed his body of all fine and gross motor control.

During the last few years of his illness, additional physical and emotional support came from his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Paul and Denise, and sister-in-law Rosemary.

Nieces, nephews, and close friends living in Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Millet, Winnipeg, Kelowna, Vancouver, Toronto and London, England all helped to make his 85th birthday an event filled with special personal memories.

Surrounded by love, care and prayers from Michael’s family and friends, he died peacefully in his own home. In accordance with Michael’s wishes, no formal service will be held, and cremation has taken place.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Maureen Pankiw of 43 years.

Also mourning his death are his niece, Janice (Vince) Pocatello and nephew, Bradley Pocatello.

He will always be remembered by his brothers-in-law, Alex and Andrew; nieces and nephews on the Pankiw side, as well as his dear friend, John Kennedy, who took the time to stay in touch and call him once a week.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of the brave and fighting spirit of Michael John Pocatello to the Parkinson Association of Alberta, Buchanan Centre, 11209 86 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5B 3H7 or online https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E353999QE&id=5