Michael J. Sullivan

Surrounded by his loving family, Michael “Sully” Sullivan passed away quickly but peacefully at Markham Stouffville Hospital on July 8, 2016 at the age of 71. He was born on February 10, 1945 in Toronto, Ontario to Frank Sullivan Sr. and Ursula Sullivan (née Colleran). He is survived by the love of his life Agnes (née Murray) with whom he had spent almost 45 years of wonderful marriage, their daughters Karyn (Rob) and Allyson “Boo”, and his brothers John (Norma, deceased), Ted (Louise) and Peter (Dorothy) and sister Pat (Terry). He is preceded in death by siblings Kathryn, Frank (Marie, deceased), Lee and Mary (Gary).

Mike grew up in North Toronto, attending St. Monica’s Catholic School, De La Salle College and St. Michael’s College School. He then attended York University where he studied to be a teacher, his true calling and passion. He was a teacher, mentor and coach in the Toronto Catholic District School Board for over 30 years, where he dedicated himself to inspiring his students to do their best through both academics and athletics.

Always an avid athlete and sports fan throughout his life, Sully’s time was divided between summers as a member of York Downs G&CC, where he enjoyed many games with friends (especially those where he and his playing partner took home the weekly wagers). His winters were spent playing hockey, as they had been for a lifetime, playing in the Markham Men’s Recreational Hockey League, and playing rep hockey with the Markham Millionaires. Sully was always known as a great skater, selfless passer and committed captain.

More importantly, his favourite times were spent with his wife and raising his two girls, whom he loved dearly. Daddy (Mr. Bobo to Boo) inspired his girls to be the best that they could be in school, in their careers and on the field of play – always emphasizing that it was “not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog”. With Agnes, Mike shared a very special bond ever since their first blind date over 47 years ago. Their love always was, and continues to be, unbreakable.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, July 16 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Markham (5633 Highway #7) at 10am. Following the funeral, the family welcomes you to drop in to a celebration of Michael’s life at York Downs G&CC (4134 16th Avenue, Markham, ON) anytime between 12 and 4pm. A private internment for family will take place in the days following.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation in Mike’s memory to Jumpstart (http://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca/en/donate), a charity that gives children in families with financial need the ability to participate in sports, which mirrors his passion for ensuring that all kids have the chance to learn through the power of sport. Alternatively, a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society (http://www.cancer.ca) in memory of Mike would also be welcome.

We miss you already more than words can express.