Michael Greaney

of Gainford passed away peacefully on October 30th at the age of 87.

As the father of one daughter and six athletic sons, he spent many years in the local hockey arenas cheering on his children. You could always find him on the highest level of the stands at center ice. He held many trade tickets and was a builder and fixer of all things. He loved nature and had the most beautiful yard and gardens which provided a bounty of flowers, fruit and vegetables for the family (and many neighbours) to enjoy. He spent many summer weekends with his wife and children (and usually an extra one or two) camping beside, and fishing the creeks, in the backcountry in the foothills. Michael was instrumental in having a parcel of land bordering the family home designated as conservation land protecting the habitat of the many creatures great and small that he so loved and providing a glimpse of preserved nature for generations to come. Their property is a popular birdwatching spot, and they have participated in the annual bird count for years. Many Saturday mornings, they would wake up to find ‘extra’ vehicles in their driveway belonging to those that came early for the opportunity of a bird sighting, and their guests typically did not have to venture outside the yard nor did they usually leave disappointed. Many were recipients of tea or coffee and some of his wife’s homemade butter tarts.

Michael loved Sudoku, Word Search and Family Feud. He could always be found puttering outside or in his workshop. Although he could be stubborn (his Irish heritage coming through; no surprise that his favourite colour was green), he had a pure, open heart as big as the beautiful blue Alberta skies that he lived under and would do anything for anyone.

His biggest love, lasting legacy and greatest blessing is his family. He, along with his beloved wife, Loraine, of 65 years, instilled in their children the importance of family, love, commitment and kindness. The most generous of gifts to be cherished by us all.

Michael leaves, to celebrate his rich, wonderful life, his children: Tim (Shelley), Michele (Donald), Jim (d. 1984), Kelly (Cheri), Pat (Velvet), Glen (Sheri), and Clancy (Shantel). Grandchildren: Zack (Trish), Detra, Dalton (Erica), Ali (David), Laurie (Luc), Dylan, Mathieu (Rinael), Ila, Max, Kale, Stone and Arizona, and great-grandchildren: Josh, Abby, Lola, Stella, and Aoife.

He also leaves his extended family, honorary family members: Reese, Travis & Joy, Michelle & Ken and Kim & Lorne and many wonderful friends and neighbours.

‘May you live as long as you want to and want to as long as you live’.