Michael Flensburg

Michael Frank Flensburg died serenely in Saskatoon on Sunday, October 16, 2016 after a courageous eleven-month journey with leukaemia. He was born July 23, 1949 in Campbell River, the son of Nora Flensburg and the late Frank Simson. Michael's Swedish genes and his childhood in British Columbia gave him an innate love of mountains, forest and sea. His colourful early working life included stints in sawmills and on a freighter. He met the love of his life Alison (nee Wright) in Vancouver. They married in 1975, and lived in Vernon, BC before moving to Saskatoon in 1977. At the University of Saskatchewan he studied linguistics and far eastern studies, graduating cum laude. His two greatest joys in his varied career were teaching, and working in bookstores. As an English as a Second Language teacher, he was much beloved by his students. In 2008 he became co-owner of White Cat Books on 2nd Avenue in Saskatoon.  He was known for his booming laugh, his curly hair and beard, and his encyclopaedic knowledge of literature, history, movies, music, and popular culture. Michael especially loved listening to music, walking in nature, and writing poetry and fiction. He was especially compassionate to the less fortunate. He is survived by his loving wife Alison, his sister Kathy Para (Kevin Maser) of Gibson's Landing, BC, his mother Nora and stepfather Tom Flensburg of Vernon, BC; numerous cousins; sisters-in-law Ruth Millar of Saskatoon, and Meredith White of Gatineau Quebec, and brother-in-law David Wright of Saskatoon; many nephews and nieces by marriage. Michael's family are infinitely grateful to members of Grandmothers 4 Grandmothers, and many other cherished friends who gave loving support during his final days. He was so grateful for the gentle, proficient care he received in the Royal University Hospital, the Cancer Centre, and St. Paul's Hospital. A Celebration of Life will take place at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, October 22 at Windsor Chapel (704 Windsor Street). In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest donations in his name to a charity of your choice. Send personal messages to [email protected]   Arrangements in care of John Schachtel - MOURNING GLORY FUNERAL SERVICES (306-978-5200)