Michael Peleschak

Passed away at home, in his 90th year. Beloved husband of Mary (Hamilton) for more than 65 years. Proud father of Martha Maznevski (Brian), Susan Murray (John), and David (Glenna Banda). Loving grandfather of Andrea Evans (Russell), Katie and Julianna Maznevski (Johnny Burger), Benjamin (Bailey McLeod) and Jonathan (Claire Sutherns) Murray, William and Laurel Peleschak. Great grandfather to Arielle and Xander Duncan. Human companion to many treasured four-legged family members, including Spirit and her Bernese predecessors. A first generation Canadian, Michael was the pride and joy of his Ukrainian immigrant parents, Martha and Metro. The family moved frequently, and Michael experimented with many professions along the way, from military to medic, before arriving in London, Ontario. Here, he met Mary while singing in the Western University choir. Married in 1958, Mike and Mary spent their first summer together as park rangers in Northern Ontario before both settling into teaching. After graduating with an English degree and teaching diploma, he embarked on a life-long journey of learning - for himself and others. They lived in Georgetown, where they welcomed daughters Martha and Susan, before moving to Uxbridge and welcoming son, David. The family moved to Ajax in 1971 where they lived until retirement and one last move, to Guelph (1994). During his career, Mike was an English teacher at Georgetown High School, vice-principal at Uxbridge Secondary School, principal at Anderson Collegiate Vocational Institute (Whitby) and at Dunbarton High School (Pickering). He continued his own learnings through his active involvement with churches wherever he and Mary lived, supporting the kids and grandkids in all their activities, and in later years, with the Guelph Wellington Mens Club. His passion for nature and photography was passed on to his children and grandchildren. Some of Mike's favourite times were spent with Mary and the kids travelling the country in their campers, and when he could no longer do that, cottaging at Point Pelee for spring and fall birding. When you hear a bird's song, please think of Dad. We will.

Private cremation has taken place. The family will receive their friends at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph on Friday, September 22, 2023 from 5-8 p.m. A Celebration of Michael's Life will be held at Harcourt Memorial United Church, 87 Dean Ave., Guelph on Sunday, September 24, 2023 at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated in Mike's name to Harcourt Memorial United Church or Friends of Point Pelee. Donation cards are available at the funeral home or leave condolences online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com