Michael Leo Joseph Pierrynowski

Sydney

Pierrynowski, Michael Leo Joseph - Age 74, Sydney. After a short battle with cancer, Mike passed away on Monday July 23rd as he hoped he would - peacefully surrounded by his family. Born in the Whitney Pier area of Sydney to the late Michael and Helen (Trojan) Pierrynowski, Mike lived a full, joy filled life. A graduate of Sydney Academy High School, Mike went on to study at "Little X" , then completed his BA (Econ), B.Ed. and M.Ed. at St. FX. This began his 33 year career as a lifelong educator where he taught at Don Bosco, Jamieson, Sheriff, and Whitney Pier Memorial Junior High, where he was Principal for 11 years. Memorial held a special place in Mike’s heart as it provided him the opportunity to work and provide leadership in the community where he grew up. It also gave him the chance to eat lunch every day with his Mom who lived nearby. Mike then became Assistant Superintendent of the Cape Breton Victoria District School Board where he stayed until his retirement at age 52, at which time “Papa P” transitioned to a full-time grandfather. The memories and friendships he made during these years in education endured a lifetime.

Mike was passionate about food. Whether it was his numerous dinner clubs, soup for his grandchildren, or traditional Polish food, Mike loved food’s ability to bring friends and family around a table. It was impossible to visit the house without Mike pouring you a drink and pulling together a bite to eat. Mike also loved to be in the garden. For many years, Mike and Anita spent winters in Hawaii and Florida where he’d be inspired to return home to his own garden. From his Mom’s Webster Street vegetable garden to his flowers and privet hedge on Alexandra Street, Mike loved planning and tending to his garden. He was also active in his faith. Over the years he served as a lecturer, Eucharistic minister, alter server and sat on several parish councils and countless committees. He especially enjoyed his role with the St. Anthony Daniel men’s club annual fundraiser where each year he combined his passions for food and community service by leading the creation of a multi-course meal for almost 200 people.

Mike is survived by his friend and wife of 50 years, Anita (Vassallo), his two children, Donna (Scott) Halperin, Antigonish; and Darryl (Karen Anne) Pierrynowski, Bedford and his sister Joan (Terrence) McMahon, Ottawa, Ontario. He is predeceased by his brothers, Ed (Irene) and Ray (Yvonne). Mike was blessed with 7 grandchildren: Dylan, Kirsten, Ben, Sam, Noah, Klara and Nolan. Although separated by distance, Mike was never more than phone call away from them making countless trips between Sydney and Antigonish and Halifax to know and love them and do his part in creating the next generation of pierogi and cabbage roll lovers.

Mike was a son, brother, father, uncle, educator, grandfather, and friend. He touched the lives and hearts of so many, and we will miss him so very much. We thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers, visits, calls, emails and texts to Mike. They brought a smile to his face, warmth to his heart and a sense of calm and contentment during his final days. Visitation will be held at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel on Thursday, July 26th from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. and a Celebration of Mike’s life will be held Friday, July 27th at 11:00 am. at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish, 40 Cabot St, Sydney, NS. In lieu of flowers, donations can made to the Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton County, where Mike spent his last days in great comfort and care. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.twcurry.com