Michael John Kim

Born on February 2, 1930 in Korea, Michael lived a remarkable life defined by faith, education, and service. He spent his early years in Shanghai, where he embraced Catholicism at the age of 15, before moving to Hong Kong. There, while teaching at Saint Francis Xavier College, he met Gloria, the love of his life and wife of 69 years. They were married on December 16, 1956, and their bond remained strong through every chapter of their journey, from their early years in Hong Kong to building a new life in Vancouver.

In 1964, Michael and Gloria immigrated with their two children, Elaine and Tony, and made Vancouver their home, a place that would remain the heart of their family for more than six decades. During his 25 years at Vancouver College, Michael made history as the school’s first non-Christian Brother administrator, serving as Grammar School Supervisor, Director of the Elementary Department, and later Elementary School Supervisor. Under his guidance, the Elementary School became “quite progressive in its teaching methods, yet quite conservative in its religious values and approaches to life.” His humility, faith, and commitment to excellence inspired all who knew him, and he remained a beloved figure in the Vancouver College community long after his retirement in 1992.

Beyond his vocation, Michael was a man of many passions. He loved cooking, collecting watches, painting landscapes and building intricate models of cars, airplanes, and motorcycles. He was a loyal fan of the Vancouver Canucks, BC Lions, and Vancouver Whitecaps, and found joy in sharing those moments of excitement with family. His faithful companion, Nicky, was never far from his side.

Michael is survived by his loving wife Gloria, his son Tony (Patty), his son-in-law Ron (his late daughter Elaine), and his cherished grandchildren Julia, Natalie (Jordan), and Trevor (Hannah). He will be remembered for his warmth, humour, strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and faith.

His was a life well lived, full of love, laughter, and purpose. Though he is gone, his light remains. May he rest in God’s eternal peace, reunited with loved ones who went before him. May his spirit live forever in the hearts of those he loved.

Michael’s funeral will take place at his parish church, Holy Name (4925 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z4) on Thursday October 30, 2025 at 11am.