ALUMNI Step Back into the Den ___ 10 ___
ST. MICHAEL’S APPOINTS REMEMBERING MAN OF ST. MICHAEL’S: DOUBLE BLUE PICTORIAL: New Principal Mike Labinjo ’99 Joe Younder ’56 Class of 2019 ______8 ___ 14 16 18
ALUMNI MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2019 | VOLUME 25 CONTACT DIRECTORY Message from the PRESIDENT
www.stmichaelscollegeschool.com BLUE BANNER ONLINE: www.mybluebanner.com BASILIAN FATHERS: www.basilian.org e St. Michael’s College School alumni magazine, Blue Your example in the world is what these soon-to-be CISAA (ATHLETIC SCHEDULE): www.cisaa.ca Banner, is published twice a year. It re ects the history, graduates see and will see. It may appear as a light flickering accomplishments, and stories of graduates and its purpose is TWI ER: www.twi er.com/smcs1852 in the distance or something far more concrete, as visible as to promote collegiality, respect, and Christian values under ADVANCEMENT OFFICE: [email protected] the light of day. However it appears, these students will likely experience its impact. the direction of the Basilian Fathers. ALUMNI AFFAIRS: [email protected] ARCHIVES OFFICE: [email protected] Your presence at the Grade 12 Alumni Homeroom Visits INTERIM PRESIDENT: Fr. Andrew Leung, CSB BLUE BANNER FEEDBACK: [email protected] and several other spring events including, the A Gi of Glamour fashion show, the sixth Alumni Networking Event, EDITOR: Gavin Davidson ’93 COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE: [email protected] the Father & Son BBQ (with past graduates participating TEL: 416-653-3180 (ext. 292) CO-EDITOR: Michael De Pellegrin ’94 with their sons who are current or incoming students), the FAX: 416-653-8789 Alumni Spring Reunion & BBQ, the Archangel’s Den Joe Younder ’56 Peter Fillman CONTRIBUTORS: , , E-MAIL: [email protected] Dear Alumni, Alumni Contest, the Evans Tannis Alumni Soccer David Grossman, Kimm Bailey, Stephanie Nicholls. • Admissions (ext. 200) Showdown, quarterly Alumni Association meetings, • Advancement (ext. 118) e sense of hope and renewal that comes with spring is only countless mentoring roles, as well as helping the Community outdone at St. Michael’s College School by the anticipation, Partnerships department and participating in experiential • Alumni Affairs (ext. 273) excitement, and wonder that go hand-in-hand with the learning initiatives throughout the academic year. ese are TABLE OFTABLE OF CONTENTS • Archives (ext. 457) culmination of another school year and graduation - the among the visible signs of the light you provide in the world CONTENTS • Arena (ext. 422) crowning glory that kicks off the summer! and to our students and wider community. President’s Message 3 • Chief Operating Officer (ext. 239) Achieving this milestone of progressing to the next academic Your active, dedicated involvement in the life of the school is • Communications (ext. 292) Alumni Association Message 4 level is a tangible accomplishment for the student and a gift to our students. Thank you for your time, energy, efforts, • Facilities (ext. 230) Editor’s Le er 5 everyone involved in supporting his scholastic journey - and passion in sharing these treasured gis. • Finance (ext. 117) faculty, staff, parents, classmates, and you, graduates of SMCS Le ers to the Editor 6 • Main Reception (ext. 0) who, in some way, made an impact. It is our hope and goal as educators that these contributions St. Michael’s Appoints New Principal 8 help blaze a trail for our current and future students, like they • Marketing (ext. 288) Whether as mentors for our students, examples of leadership have for you, and as they have for 167 years and counting, Welcome Back to the Den, Gentlemen 10 • Mporium – School Store (ext. 431) in the community, change-makers in society, key towards living lives that exemplify faith, character and Mike Labinjo ’99 was a Homegrown Star since Day 1 14 • Interim President – Fr. Andrew Leung, CSB (ext. 180) contributors through partnerships, volunteers for various service. Man of St. Michael’s: Joe Younder ’56 16 • Acting Co-Principal – Mr. Emile John ’87 (ext. 156) school initiatives, role models in some capacity or another, each of you paves the path for SMCS graduates behind you - Thank you for all that you do. Double Blue Pictorial: Welcome class of 2019 18 • Acting Co-Principal – Mr. David Lee ’94 (ext. 179) many of whom you will never meet. • Dean of Students – Mr. Daniel Blaik (ext. 265) Securing our Future by Giving Back: Class of 1984 20 Blessings, e common denominator for all our graduates is learning Where Are ey Now 22 Canada Publications Mail Agreement #40006997 and living our mission of Goodness, Discipline, and Around the Rink 25 Knowledge through the Basilian model of teaching, rooted ON THE COVER: in educating the whole person - his mind, his body, and his Fr. Andrew Leung, CSB In Memoriam 27 Robert Celik ’14 (le) is presented the Archangel’s Den spirit. Interim President The Way We Were: Remembering Mike Lavelle ’54 35 winner’s cheque by last year’s Conor Ross ’12 (right).
BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 3 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Message EDITOR’S Le er
My Fellow Alumni, Once Joe was done taking his bow, we asked him if he would not mind taking another run at the old typewriter. His answer, Since graduating, I've always found comfort in coming back as always, was yes. It’s brilliant to see him grace these pages to St. Mike's. It's like coming home and I've found a way to once again as he remembers his dear, departed friend Mike help out. To be able to give back to the school that made me Lavelle ’54 in e Way We Were (p.34). who I am is a true privilege and, in a self-serving way, incredibly gratifying. While we couldn’t convince Joe to write the whole issue, we have managed to ll it with other fantastic alumni tales, Over the past ve years, the Alumni Association has worked including a recap of the second edition of Archangel’s Den diligently at connecting St. Mike’s to the community. (Welcome Back to the Den, Gentlemen, p.10), a lovely article We continue to receive great feedback from young alumni on recently deceased grad, and former NFL player, Mike Labinjo ’99, originally wri en by David Grossman for c.ca that have bene ted from mentorship pairing. I urge you to We invite you to continue to get involved, a end an alumni Dear Readers, (Remembering Mike Labinjo, p.14), and our traditional read their stories in the Where Are ey Now section (p.22). meeting, or submit ideas and feedback at [email protected] welcome to the newest group of St. Michael’s alumni (Double You know, with a dozen issues now under my belt as editor, Blue Pictorial, p.18). In April, alumni including myself, partnered with the A Gi I’m nally starting to feel like I am ge ing the hang of this of Glamour fashion show, stru ing/stumbling our way John P. O'Neill thing! Considering we only publish two issues a year (or at John P. O’Neill ’86 Best of all, a er the delays surrounding the last issue, we some- down the runway for this great school fundraiser. ankfully, least we try to publish two issues per year!) it is amazing President, SMCSAA how managed to get this out on time (I hope). Like I said, not a lot of pictures/evidence exist. how quickly six years (and various missed deadlines) have time ies. at’s why we’re already planning for the next issue, own by. in which we hope to feature the stories of a lesser known May was a crazy month for the Alumni Association! On May 7, group of alumni – those who did not a end St. Mike’s for the we hosted our sixth Networking Event, and we had a record I must say, it’s all been great fun, ge ing to hang around the full high school term, but still managed to bene t from the school on a regular basis, constantly inhaling the sweet turnout. is year the keynote speaker, Susan Motkaluk, gave PAST time they did spend here. tips and tricks on how to be successful at networking PRESIDENTS stories of successful grads, and working closely with my evenings. On May 11, seven teams gathered for the Evans co-editor, Michael De Pellegrin ’94. It could have gone Frank Di Nino ’80 William Rosenitsch ’57 If you are one of those alumni, why don’t you drop me an Tannis Alumni Soccer Showdown to raise funds for the very dierently. A er all, I had huge shoes to ll in following Marc Montemurro ’93 Paul Tomson ’65 email at [email protected] and let’s see if we can’t Alumni Association and the Varsity Soccer Team. On the Joe Younder ’56, who is revered around these parts not just Josh Colle ’92 John G. Walsh ’58 + get you into the next issue. 30th, we invited graduates from the past decade to the for his successful tenure as editor, but for his more than Romeo Milano ’80 Frank Thickett ’57 50-year association with the school as a student, teacher, and Annual Spring BBQ & Reunion. is gave me the Joyous Reading, Peter Thurton ’81 W. Frank Morneau ’59 opportunity to ocially welcome the Class of 2018 into the general all-around legend. Alumni Association, during a reception held in their honour. Dennis Caponi Jr. ’86 Frank Glionna ’53 + It was a great evening of seeing old friends and telling Rob Grossi ’72 George Cormack ’49 Luckily, those shoes, as with the man himself, were the nicest, university war stories. Paul Grossi ’69 Richard Wakely ’64 + most comfortable pair you could ever nd, helping to make my transition seamless, although perhaps not to readers who Daniel Brennan ’70 Gordon Ashworth ’45 + Gavin Davidson ’93 miss Joe’s unique and engaging style. It is because of his Lastly, I am starting to see more Winged M’s pop up on cars, John McCusker ’57 G. J. McGoey ’58 + Editor unimpeachable style, in life as well as in writing, as much as trucks, and even trailers. So please show your St. Michael’s William Metzler ’65 Paul McNamara ’40 + for his legion of accomplishments around the school, that we pride and help spread our wings by tagging #SMCSFamily John Bonvivere ’50 + Joseph Primeau ’28 + have designated Mr. Younder as this issue’s Man of St. on social media. If you don’t have one, or need another, they Michael Duffy ’65 Dick Foster ’30 + Michael’s (p.16). It is well deserved Joe, as I’m sure all our are available at the Mporium, located in the arena. Ross Robertson ’64 + Deceased readers and alumni would agree. Take a bow.
4 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 5 Dear Editor, LETTERS to the Editor Most, if not all, adults know that the propensity of teenage St. Michael’s Appoints New PRINCIPAL boys to engage in some truly stupid activities is quite high, especially in a peer group se ing. I, together with a classmate, was almost expelled from SMCS for shopli ing candy bars In 2012, Jamie was named Superintendent of Education for from Loblaws and being collared by the store detective. I was Dear Editor, the Brant Haldiman Norfolk Catholic District School Board, een years old at the time. I enjoyed reading the article on Sergio (Remembering Sergio leading the district’s secondary school supervision, student Marchionne ’71, Issue 24). At the same time Sergio was achievement programmes as well as leadership development, making a name for himself at Fiat Chrysler another St. Mike’s e events of this past November struck me as a crude team and continuing education initiatives. He introduced many alumnus was making his mark in the automotive industry. hazing ritual gone bad, in the way that so many of them do in Steve Kelleher ’71, a er playing goal for the Buzzers, went retrospect. Just about every high school and university has innovative programmes including cognitive coaching for on to play for the Cornell Big Red. A er graduating from had similar incidents in their past. school and system leaders. During his three-year appoint- Cornell, he ended up working at Hyundai Canada, eventually ment, he focused on human resources development and the becoming President and leading the company through a I a ended SMCS for ve years. Was I bullied? Yes, on creation of innovative programmes in robotics and other occasion; by older boys in grades ahead of me. Was it system- period of tremendous growth. inquiry and experiential-based learning. atic? Certainly not. I was never on any athletic team and any Regards, harassment I experienced was simply the result of a profound Gary Ba aglia ’70 antipathy between another individual and myself. Nor was “Jamie is an innovative leader whose contributions to Catho- there any hint of a sexual assault angle in the conicts I faced. lic education and focus on student success, as evident in our Ed’s Reply: What a fantastic idea for an article, Gary. On May 9, St. Michael’s College School and the Basilian Catholic secondary schools, made a notable dierence to our Please accept our thanks for your suggestion and look out e scandal of this past year might have been handled Fathers announced the appointment of Mr. Jamie McKinnon system, students, and Catholic community. We wish him all for Steve’s story in the next issue. dierently—that’s a judgement call that others are be er as the 30th principal in the school’s 167-year history. With 32 the best in his new role,” said Chair of the Norfolk Catholic quali ed to make. Mind you, my daughter a ended a private years of leadership in Catholic education, Jamie has served in District School Board, Rick Petrella. high school where computer/smartphone use, etique e, and Dear Editor, a variety of progressive high school leadership roles that have safety, especially in the realms of social media, was a serious Just to let you know that I enjoy the Banner and don't want to taken his career from Waterloo to Brantford to Bruce-Grey McKinnon was appointed Director of Education for the subject in its own right. I have no idea whether SMCS oers miss an issue – so I am providing you with my updated County, and now to Toronto. Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board in 2015. For the address. Say ‘hi’ to Joe Younder ’56 for me. similar programmes, but if not it should consider the merits thereof! last four years, his time has been spent developing, monitor- Regards, McKinnon’s background in education includes a Bachelor of ing, and implementing multi-year strategic plans. His portfo- Tim O'Leary ’56 Manuel Cappel ’70 Physical and Health Education from Queen’s University, a lio as Director also focused on student achievement, and Bachelor of Education from Western University, and a Master exceeding the Catholic Graduate Expectations incorporating Ed’s Reply: That would be Man of St. Michael’s, Joe Ed’s Reply: Manuel, thank you so much for your thoughtful of Education from the University of Southern Queensland technology, Design inking, and global competencies. Younder ’56 (p.16), would it not? We will certainly pass letter. We need more like this. St. Mike’s has long offered (Australia). along your greetings, Tim. similar awareness programmes regarding social media and technology and has redoubled their efforts in light of “Over the course of my career, I have been blessed to work last year’s events. “Jamie brings an outstanding background in Catholic educa- with many exemplary Catholic leaders in education," says Dear Editor, tion at the high school level along with a passion for develop- McKinnon. “I look forward to the opportunity to work with I really enjoyed reading Ed Bridge’s ’59 reminiscences about ing collaborative contributors in our increasingly connected the St. Michael’s College School community in building on a his high school years at St. Mike’s. Ed and I were classmates Dear Editor, and global world,” said Fr. Andrew Leung, CSB, Interim tradition of excellence in teaching Goodness, Discipline, and from 1955-59 and had many of the same teachers. I would Would you kindly advise me if the Blue Banner is still very much like to communicate directly with Ed about some President. “St. Michael’s College School and the Basilian Knowledge and taking the value, honour, and faith of that published? I use to receive it on a regular basis, but not lately. of the people he discusses. Fathers are very pleased to welcome Mr. Jamie McKinnon to tradition into the future.” our community.” I look forward to your response, anks and warm regards, Mr. McKinnon led the Bruce-Grey board through a contin- Bob Birgeneau ’59 Emile erien ’61 O awa, Ontario. From 1987-2003, McKinnon served the Waterloo Catholic ued period of growth, with innovative programming support- Ed’s Reply: Thank you, Bob. I believe the wonderful Kimm District School Board as a teacher and athletic director, and ing student achievement. One priority has been in developing Bailey has put the two of you in touch. Be sure to send us Ed’s Reply: I know the last issue was late, Emile – but not from 2003-12 he served as Principal of Resurrection and inquiry and problem solving skills using Design inking as an update for Where Are They Now. that late, surely!! St. Benedict Catholic Secondary Schools. a tool across the curriculum connected. is, to innovative
6 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 7 WELCOME BACK TO THE DEN, Gentlemen.
Consider the bar Second place and $3,500 went to Liam Herbst ’14 for raised, gentlemen. RateRover, a nancial product comparison chatbot recom- mending to users the best nancial products based on their On Wednesday June 5, lifestyle and spending habits. e innovative tech company is in front of an enthusi- aiming to introduce university students to the best credit card, astic crowd gathered instead of a speci c card selected by the banks. in the St. Michael’s Centre for the Arts, Taking home third place and the associated $1,500 prize was the winner of the second edition Archangel’s Den was Gabe Galucci ’09 with ALTR. Inc., another industry disruptor crowned. A joint production of the school and the alumni – this one taking on the ever-evolving music industry, while association, the Archangel’s Den saw six accomplished judges promising to put the needs of the artists rst. ALTR currently (see page 12) choose a victor from amongst ve well deserv- represents musical and visual artists and a portfolio of brands, building its reputation as a hub for 'ALTRnative' thinking ing nalists (see page 10). designed to create sustainable brands and businesses.
If there were fears that reducing the number of nalists from the It could be argued however that everyone involved was a winner. 10 that were featured last year would reduce the quality of the e quality of the ideas and presentations was extremely high. Each competition, they were allayed. If there were worries that reduc- of the winning contestants will be provided with the opportunity ing the number of nalists would reduce the drama, they were to move their business forward by working with their respective unfounded. And if there was belief that halving the number of Alumni Association mentors for the next six months. Don’t be nalists would make the judges job easier, it was misplaced. surprised if you hear about all three businesses in the future.
Instead, it made for a fast-paced, drama- lled, and extremely “ ese are all real legit companies that have a good chance of enjoyable evening. One in which an argument could be made enjoying success moving forward,” said last year’s winner, Conor for any of the ve nalists to come in rst place. However, the Ross ’12, who presented the cheque to Robert Celik along with hosts’ plea to pass a hat around the audience so that each of the some advice. “ e key, as these entrepreneurs are scaling their ve groups could be awarded a $10,000 prize fell on deaf ears businesses, will be to always keep the consumer front of mind classroom environments and technology, to support learning well in his new position at St. Michael’s College School, and and the judges were forced into deliberations that, much like a when designing their products.” for the future that re ects Catholic social teaching, continues thank him for his considerable contributions to public high-pro le trial, could have gone on for days. to be a focus of the work at the Catholic school board. funded Catholic Education throughout his career.” Plans have already begun for next year’s Archangel's Den. ey did not. As the audience was gathered in the theatre lobby If you’re ready to start planning your entry, take note not just of “It is with very mixed emotions that I move on from one of Mr. McKinnon looks forward to bringing his passion for life munching on complimentary sandwiches and delicious desserts, the fact that the quality of competition has been very high in both Dens, but that both winners have had ideas capable of the most nimble, innovative, and compassionate school long learning, innovation, problem solving, and being future the judges announced a decision had been made. A tough making a real di erence. systems in the province,” he said. “From my very rst visit I focused to the challenges and opportunities at St. Michael’s decision yes, but one about which there could be no complaints.
experienced nothing but welcoming communities who care College School. His tenure with the Bruce-Grey Board will At the end of a wonderful evening, rst prize and $10,000 was for the well being of their people and have high expectations end July 31 and he will assume the leadership role at St. Michael’s awarded to Robert Celik ’14 and his revolutionary idea for for the future and for the success of each and every student.” College School e ective August 2019. Unavoidable. (ed’s note: thank you for avoiding the obvious pun). Unavoidable collects free food waste from partners in the Chair of the Board, Bev Eckensweiler, expressed her thanks to “It is a privilege, honour, and worthy challenge to join the foodservice industry, who normally have to pay for disposal, and Jamie for the work he has done at Bruce-Grey CDSB. leadership and legacy of an institution that has in uenced turns it into valued consumer products. “We will miss Jamie’s passion and dedication, his deep Catholic education in Canada and the world since 1852. commitment to the constant striving for excellence, and his I look forward to meeting and working along side those who “Tonight was a great experience full of positive energy,” said strong faith that is at the root of all that he does. We wish him make up the community that is St. Michael’s College School.“ Celik. “I’m super-excited to grow my business and use this funding for positive change.”
8 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 9 Robert Celik ’14 - Liam Herbst ’14 - Raterover Unavoidable (Team members: Shawn Moss and Adithya Sukumar) Gabe Gallucci ’09 - Altr Inc. Billions of dollars are being (Team members: Giancarlo Gallucci, Nicole Gallucci, wasted each year based on the Brandon Shidlowski, Denis Lipman) de nition we assign to certain FINALISTS components of our food. e problem is truly eating a hole Neal McCarthy ’08 - Blind Date in the Canadian economy. Exactly as it sounds, think Tinder without pictures. e idea Unavoidable is reimagining of the app is simple, with users matched through a variety of the way speci c types of criteria, including short questions and their online pro les. previously neglected food Like a blind date, interactions will initially be limited to chat, wastes are managed and giving users an opportunity to get to know the other person utilized. Collecting 'unavoid- and build quality rapport. rough quality interactions and able' food waste (e.g. co ee grounds and egg shells) from higher user ratings more oppor- partners in the foodservice industry at no cost, the company tunities to share will be unlocked, Since its inception, ALTR has expanded into an all plans to transform the material inputs into valuable products including options such as likes encompassing creative and content house that co-creates that consumers demand, bringing the new products back to RateRover is a nancial product comparison chatbot recom- and photos. with, and represents, musicians, visual artists, and creative the cafés and restaurants to be marketed and sold to consum- mending to users the best nancial products based on their brands. ALTR currently represents musical and visual artists ers in a closed loop cycle. ere are a variety of input materials lifestyle and spending habits. ( ink SnapTravel x Nerdwal- and a portfolio of brands, building its reputation as a hub for Given the renewed focus on they are able to repurpose, each with unique properties and let). Most people go to the wrong sources for advice on 'ALTRnative' thinking designed to create sustainable privacy, the app will provide end of life uses. With the signi cant environmental, social, nancial products, thereby missing out on great rewards or brands/businesses. In the past six months, the team has realistic privacy and security and economic externalities of our food system, the work the unnecessarily spending hundreds of dollars each year. grown from 1 to 5 and relocated to an 1800 sq. foot facility in seings for users and make all company is doing is truly Unavoidable. Finding the right nancial products is a di cult and tedious Vaughan that includes a full music studio, o ces, and a multi- commercially reasonable e orts process. RateRover solves this problem with a simpli ed, functional ‘live’ room used for music development, content to secure data. A rating system will allow users to provide personalized, and charming Facebook Messenger chatbot. creation, and business workshops. Pitch Mentor: Dante Vertolli ’11 feedback on each other anonymously and ag users that need Dante Vertolli completed a Bachelor of Commerce at eir mission is to provide the simplest solution to nding to be investigated further. Users will have more control over Pitch Mentor: Robert R. Bartucci ’96 Ryerson's Ted Rogers School the best nancial products for you. RateRover is currently for who can see their information and know how it is being used During his two year tenure as Chief Executive at Glen of Management and an MBA credit cards [getraterover.com]. ey plan to expand into in the selection process. Dimplex Americas, the world's largest manufacturer of from the University of other nancial products such as bank accounts, insurance, electrical heating, Robert has grown a local business into a Toronto's Rotman School of and mortgages. Pitch Mentor: Rowan Comish ’12 $165M juggernaut operating across two continents with a Management. Prior to Rowan is a product manager at RBC with a background in growing portfolio of brands. Previously, he served as completing his MBA, Dante Pitch Mentor: Giampiero DePasquale ’08 soware development and data science. He studied physics President of Solowave Design, growing the business from spent time at Apple in various Giampiero De Pasquale is passionate about Fintech. Having and computer science at the University of Toronto while also $60M to $130M in value. Prior to that, Robert worked at areas of their Retail Opera- earned his CA from KPMG, he has gone on to hold leader- playing on the Varsity Football Team. While there, he went Masco Corporation, where, tions team. While at Rotman, ship roles in some of through the Hatchery, U of T's entrepreneurship summer for 12 years, he held a variety of Dante was involved with the Canada's top ntechs programme for students, progressive senior leadership University of Toronto's including Wealthsimple, helped plan and start building positions. In addition to his Entrepreneurship Hatchery, Canada's leading robo- a company, which success- executive experience, Robert where he mentored ve advisor, Borrowell, one of fully made it to demo day. is a member of the Young science-based start-ups through Canada's largest credit He enjoyed being a mentor Presidents’ Organization, and a summer-long pitch compe- education platforms and and a part of last year's received his MBA and under- tition, as well as Rotman's Creative Destruction Lab, where he now, Finaeo, a leader in Archangel's Den and looks graduate degree from the worked exclusively with a seed-stage space start-up on their digital insurance. forward to helping the University of Toronto. product roadmap and strategic positioning. programme succeed.
10 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 11 allows you to earn money by being physically active, and is a Susan Motkaluk is a community builder with a focus on Co-Founder of Bucket.network, a sports recruitment partnerships, communication, and nding common goals J startup. Kuliavas is also a board member of Bay Street Hoops, with multiple stakeholders. While UDGES a basketball charity tournament that has raised almost with the City of Swi Current, she $3 million to support charities providing the opportunity for led the strategic plan for revitaliz- kids to experience the positive bene ts of organized sport. ing the downtown market and Steven Hellmann ’96 is infrastructure in response to the award-winning founder of Ma Gubasta ’13, the President and Co-Founder of Saskatchewan’s rapid business e Foodies Group(TM) and RockMass Technologies Inc., is a passionate entrepreneur growth. Collaborating with city Li le Birdie Media. Steven is an and leader whose contributions continue to shape the future council and building long-term Grant Whitmore '17 - Sublet Connect expert in the elds of food, of mining. Leveraging the need for new solutions in the partnerships within the commu- (Team members Kyran Bonner ’17 and events, and PR/promotions. mining industry, Ma and his team utilize cu ing edge robot- nity, she broke records of develop- Charlie Martin ’17) He is also a public speaker - ics and arti cial intelligence ment activity from 2011-15 and Sublet Connect is an interactive new solution for students having spoken about entrepre- systems to revolutionize the successfully elevated civic pride. hoping to enter the sublet market. Current room-search neurship and innovation at geotechnical data collection Additionally, she secured a billion- options are sca ered across multiple platforms, none of several conferences and for process for engineers and dollar investment for a gas- red electrical generation station which are purposed speci cally for the student sublet market. various brands - and an innova- enable real-time decision for the city, further solidifying Swi Current’s rising reputa- To rent a room, students must navigate a plethora of listings, tive promoter, receiving cover- making - saving time, money, tion as a business epicenter. Most recently, as CEO of the from Facebook to Kijiji, in hopes of nding an appropriate age for his businesses and the and lives. Ma values global Southbridge Development Corporation, Susan created and option. With Sublet Connect, students will now be able to businesses of his clients in major market penetration as a key implemented a 10-year strategy for a community-hub-based leverage a wide range of customization options, including local, national, and international to success in business and model for the Southbridge Care Homes Long-Term Care price, location, amenities, and duration of stay. ey also plan publications. A serial entrepreneur, Steven loves to create, has an expanding global Facilities. to make it much easier for potential listers to establish a pro le foster, and help grow innovative businesses. Also a television network to show for it. With and market their room directly to those who are most personality, Steven appears on shows such as Cityline, a current focus in the Ameri- Nikki Pe entered the world of sales and marketing 19 interested. Breakfast Television, e Social, and CHCH Morning Live. cas, he is very active in the years ago. rown into a ‘hit and run’ and hard-sell training mining and technology environment, she felt that these marketing techniques just Pitch Mentor: Michael Grochmal '95 Stan Kuliavas ’98, currently leads business develop- ecosystems in Ontario and abroad, including the Creative didn’t t her personality. Nikki Michael Grochmal is the President of AtlasCare, one of ment e orts at Levaero Aviation, where he oversees all aircra Destruction Lab and the MaRS Discovery District. Before went on to start her own promo- southern Ontario’s largest and most sales and global marketing. He also plans and executes starting RockMass, Ma was a founder of Roundtable, a tional marketing company in respected independently-owned Levaero’s growth strategy - to be the global leader in private non-pro t consulting organization funded and operated by 2002 and has built her business heating, cooling, air quality, and aviation sales, service, and distribution. Kuliavas is a licensed the United Nations. solely on personal relationships plumbing contractors. Michael joined pilot, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Business from and referrals. She practices what AtlasCare in 2004, following a Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, where he Vlado Jokic is a co-founder of Footloose Games, InsightNG she preaches. Known as the successful, progressive career in sales, was a basketball coach. (AI platform), and Snowbird.aero (aviation operations). ‘notecard nut’, Nikki writes marketing, and management with He also has a MSc. in rough years of startup and consulting experience, he has 1000+ personal notes a year. Xerox. He can oen be heard sharing Basketball Coaching from developed a keen eye for nding gaps in our understanding of Approaching each client tips and advice on CFRB 1010 the University of Worces- important problems. His notable relationship with respect and Radio’s Home Improvement Show, ter (UK). In addition to consulting experience includes modern- enthusiasm, Nikki strives to provide concrete and measurable hosted by Frank Cohn. Michael assisting Fortune 50 izing operations of a century-old marketing techniques with a vivacious and energetic spirit. oversees a team of more than 100 employees, ensuring a companies and ultra-high- business, designing digital distribution When Nikki is not working, she is actively supporting steady commitment to strong processes and quality manage- net-worth individuals buy solutions for the lm industry in the WaterAid Tanzania by spreading awareness about this incred- ment, while creating a trusting, family-like environment that and sell their corporate pre-YouTube days, streamlining profes- ible programme, which ensures girls stay in school and respects work-life balance and encourages and rewards aircra, Stan is an active sional sports operations (NBA, NHL, become empowered leaders in their communities. She quality work and customer care. Michael strongly believes investor and business NFL), and building a digital philanthropy aspires to be someone who will have achieved much, and who that doing good is good for business and you’ll oen see him advisor. He is currently an platform. will have given even more. and his AtlasCare team helping in the community. Michael’s advisor to blockchain oldest son, Philip, is currently in Grade 8 at St. Mike’s. startup Lympo, which
12 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 13 MIKE LABINJO ’99 said Paul Armstrong, who said Labinjo also loved basketball. Was a Homegrown Star Since Day One “He had a passion for so many sports and never wanted to burden others. He had so much talent, was beer than David Grossman, CFL.ca others, and would never brag about it. (Labinjo) was a special kind of friend and just enjoyed life.” Months a er his sudden death, people still speak about Mike Labinjo, but the focus has been on his tenure with profes- Humble and displaying a positive aitude, Labinjo was a sional football. Whether it was seeing action for three NFL jovial giant – kind, articulate, and compassionate. At St. teams in one season in 2005 – Philadelphia, Indianapolis, and Michael’s, where he excelled in football - helping the team Miami – or, three years later, winning a Grey Cup with win the 1998 Metro Bowl - he was chosen Athlete of the Year. Calgary, Labinjo and football were inseparable and a winning combination. “No doubt about it, he was a gi ed athlete, his demeanour was special, and nothing in sports could rale him,” said Paul But there was far more about Labinjo, who died last Septem- Forbes, former Athletic Director and long-time football ber at the age of 38, that made him a success and a star, with And then, there was his ability to strike a bond when meeting coach at St. Mike’s. “Mike was a superb player, but what really friends, educators, those who happened to meet him for the people – those who were able to steer him in the right stood out for me was that he never criticized anyone or made “In Grade 9, he was on the Junior squad that won a league rst time, and others who quickly learned about his potential direction and ensure he would maximize his potential them feel less important. He was one of the best I ever title – and people could see him emerging as a superstar and and personality. academically, socially, and professionally. e help re received coached.” dominant player,” said Vernon. “He was a running back with from Big Brothers, an agency that provides life-changing us, but his breakout year was in Grade 12. We went to Ohio He played the violin as a kid, but some claim it was back to the mentoring experiences, was a huge step forward. It was also for an exhibition game and got clobbered. Labinjo was our era when Labinjo was a member of a Knights of Columbus where he met someone special. only standout. He caught the aention of scouts with two house league hockey team and the talk of Blessed Sacrament 80-yard touchdown runs that looked e ortless.” Elementary School, all for positive reasons, that sports took “His mother wanted a male leadership gure in his life, and I over. Others point to empowerment and those delicate, and remember meeting (Labinjo), when he was matched with us Frank Trentadue ’84, Director of Student A airs at convincing, teenage years when he was a student at at Big Brothers,” recalled Frank Gi en, who took over as St. Michael’s, had no doubt about Labinjo’s superiority on St. Michael’s College School. Labinjo’s ‘big brother’ when his own brother, Ma, had a the gridiron, as well as his commitment to a good education. career change to England. “(Labinjo) was about seven years In the classroom, Labinjo listened, persevered, and knew old, and I saw him grow as a person, gain so much con dence what he wanted – a chance to get to the next step. With through sport – he was like a son.” admiration for College Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz, whom he would one day meet, Labinjo chose going to the Owning a unique sense of humour, quiet and reserved in NCAA over aending a Canadian university. When Michi- many ways, Labinjo also had a radiant and beaming smile to gan State o ered him a chance to study and play football, go along with his creativity, dedication, and energy. Labinjo Labinjo exchanged his o ensive shoes and became a brilliant was the kind of guy, with an unassuming charm, who linebacker. surprised some of his friends by arranging hotel accommoda- tions, transportation passes, and free tickets to the 2005 Super Joe Vernon ’ 98, now an aorney in Detroit, met Labinjo at “He listened, and was a focused good student,” said Trenta- Bowl in Jacksonville – a game that saw New England beat St. Mike’s and became one of his closest friends. Labinjo’s due. “He not only knew where he stood, but at a young age, Labinjo and the Philadelphia Eagles. ability to excel impressed Vernon, but that was secondary to he also knew what he wanted. He was seless, energetic, his thoughtfulness and caring of others. Labinjo never loyal, and determined to be a role model for others.” “As kids, we were on an all-star minor hockey team and I seled for being average and showed he was seless, thought that was his primary sport –turns out I was wrong,” energetic, and loyal. For Mike Labinjo’s obituary, please see p.33
14 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 15 Man of St. Michael’s: with Mike Coughlan, teaching at the Canadian College in Lanciano, Italy. 56 “ ey were all great cultural experi- JOE YOUNDER ’ ences,” he fondly recalls. He has Michael De Pellegrin ’94 served on the Aurora Library Board, ere are other stories. He recalls one day in 1963 being is a registrar at the annual Terry Fox approached to help coach the Minor Juvenile Hockey team. Run, judges area public speaking and “In those days, early 50s, you only had two choices for a boy’s Wayne O’Reilly, a young seminarian and wonderful athlete was debating contests, helps elementary Catholic high school in Toronto: De La Salle College the head coach. e house rules were that the seminarians could children with their reading, and is a ‘Oaklands’ or St. Michael’s College School at Bathurst and St. not get out in the evenings. Joe, who knew nothing about coach- Lector at his church. At present he is Clair. For me, it was a no brainer. Most of the guys from St. ing, but was single, had a car and plenty of night time, volunteered on the selection commi ee for the Vincent de Paul Elementary School, including my brother, much to the negative voices from friends. “I took the away games Aurora, Sports’ Hall of Fame. He plays tennis fours days a week John, ended up going to St. Mike’s.” So, begins, Joe Younder’s and really, guys like Walter Winnik ’64, Mike Lecour’64, and tries his hand a golf. Joe is married to Helen and still lives in 60-plus years involvement with St. Mike’s as student, teacher, Dennis Mills ’64, and Licio Cengarle ’64 did the line changes. Aurora. ey have 4 daughters and 8 grandchildren. Alumni Association Executive, and Blue Banner editor. Bo om line, we were the 1963 Minor Juvenile A THL city champions. e Majors and Buzzers did not win that year. We got “I think when I look back over my teaching life, what I am most ose were exciting years, he recalls: retreats, student council jackets and banquets. It was then that I heeded the good advice proud of is being in the presence of some passionate students elections, rst Friday Masses, the Co age Restaurant, sock and joined the debating club.” Li le did Joe realize then that his and teachers not only at St. Mike’s but other schools as well. hops, football rivalry with Del and Sunday double hi er coaching days were not yet over. It was not until 1986, his nal ey brought out the best in me. I saw in them my vocation to hockey games at Maple Leaf Gardens, and in 1955 being Following graduation in 1956, Joe entered St. Augustine’s year at St. Mike’s, that he was once again ‘pressed’ into action. teach not only English or Latin, but life skills. I learned from elected Student Council Grad Rep., were all focal points. “We Seminary with seven fellow St. Mike’s grads. Leaving three them and their supportive parents. Driving to debates, sta were proud to wear our SMCS jackets. We were the only ‘team’ years later Younder was accepted into Assumption University Eventually, Joe met his forte when in 1964 he got into debate, and hockey, annual bus trips to Stratford, taking students to the in Toronto so to speak.” Joe doesn’t remember much of the in Windsor, another Basilian School. “I guess I was hooked on over the years built the club into a powerhouse in Toronto and theatre, celebrating birthdays at the Spaghe i Factory, Formal classroom. He struggled through Latin with the help of close the mo o, Teach Me Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge. beyond. He eventually became President of the Pro Con Forum Talks, the Yeomen, all stand out as highlights. I guess I learned friends, Steve Dempsey ’56, Bob Keegan’56, Justin It has followed me through life.” and for the next 30 years sent debating teams to Provincial and more outside the classroom than in it. My life in teaching can McCarthy ’56, and Ken Hills ’56, feeding him answers. National Competitions. Besides carrying out duties as Chairman best be summed up by what Dan (Prendergast) told me on Ironically, when he came back to teach, he taught six Grade 9 Joe kind of fell into teaching, so he says. Aer teaching a year of the English Department, Joe was an active member of the one of our morning rides to St. Mike’s. “I can’t wait to get to Latin classes. “ e last class got the best lesson. I was always in elementary school, fate played a major role in his life. Fr. Alumni Association and in 1983 was nominated by Harry Flood school to see the guys”. We are all glad you did, Joe. one chapter ahead of the boys and they knew it,” he reminisces. Bill Conway, CSB ’44 passed away in 1961 and Joe got a call ’57 as Old Boy of the Year. He was instrumental in preserving the from Norm Frene e ’54, a St. Vincent de Paul friend, who athletic history of St. Michael’s by collecting and displaying In 1986, Joe’s nal year at St. Mike’s, Peter Morris, ‘another role Not much of a student, he struggled through with the help of was teaching at St. Mike’s. Would he be able to start teaching pictures in the Old Boys’ Room above the arena. at display is model’ who was teaching at Neil McNeil High School hosted the classmates and his mother, who was active in the Ladies’ Martha in September? Without any high school experience and no now found within the arena and maintained by Peter Fillman. In Art Mannarn Memorial grade nine boy’s hockey tournament. Hugh McDougall, OSM was the coach and asked Joe if he Guild. If one of the priests suggested Joe take a summer course in certi cation, he said yes, and with a le er of permission, he 1987 the Ontario Student Debating Union (OSDU) asked him to be the Moderator, Coach of the Ontario team at the week’s would like to help. Younder jumped at the chance. “Hey, it was Math, she would tell them he had to work to save the $100 began a teaching career that spanned some 36 years. Many of National Seminar in Montreal. ere, all the provinces were two days out of class, and I had nothing to worry about. Hugh was tuition. ere were a lot of 50s on his report cards. “Money was the teachers who taught him were now his colleagues. at represented. Ontario placed rst in Bilingual, French, and English an experienced coach.” e boys won the rst game and got into tight in our household rst interview was not without humour. Fr. Ma Sheedy, competitions. In that same year Younder was awarded Teacher of the nals against Michael Power. However, on the Friday, Hugh and Mom, bless her, got CSB ’32 a big sport fan, asked me if I ever played hockey. I was the Year by Niagara University of Education for his work in had a meeting and Joe found himself on the bench once again scared. I lied and got the job.” e best advice Joe received, me through high promoting debate in Ontario and the Niagara Region. and alone. Fate entered. In the stands was Greg Kelly ’82, coach and true today, was to be nice to the secretaries and custodi- school,” he fondly extraordinaire who, having known and coached some of the ans because they run the school. recalls. To supplement ere’s a saying when you send your boys to St. Mike’s you have students from Blessed Trinity, gladly took over. “We won the his education, Fr. Joe friends for life. Joe has remained connected with classmates. In tournament, got a trophy, Penny, CSB ’47 got It was at St. Mike’s that he met mentors and life long friends. fact, most of his students, now retired and now grandparents, but no jackets or him a job sweeping the “Hugh McDougall OSM, Dan Prendergast OSM, Jack Fenn remain close. You can see him at Turkey Rolls, Classes of ’57, banquet. What a way to gym in between lunch ’54, OSM, Mike Lavelle ’54, and John Guerriere ’50 were ’67, ’84 gatherings, and annual sta golf tournaments. go out” Joe recalls. Some hours, and later he was exceptional people who lead by example. We were a close-knit members of that team on Fr. Bill O’Brien’s, group and the Basilian Fathers treated us well. Dan and I were Since moving to Aurora in 1966 Younder has been busy. Upon were Marcello Chiarelli CSB ’40 gym crew. He single, living from paycheck to paycheck. By the time we both got retiring in 1996, he was involved in the Special Olympics and had ’90, Sam Cosentino’90, still had a paper route in married to nurses from St. Michael’s Hospital, we each had 12 the opportunity to teach summer school in Ireland for four years. Wes McCauley’90, and Grade 9. School ew by. suits. John, Dan, and Mike are gone now. I really miss them.” In 2003, he and his wife, Helen, spent two and a half years, along Anthony Scilipoti ’90.
16 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 17 Mr. Daniel Fr. William Fr. Andrew Mr. Emile Mr. David Blaik May, CSB Leung, CSB John Lee Interim Dean Rector Interim President Interim Interim of Students Co-Principal Co-Principal ST. MICHAEL’S COLLEGE SCHOOL
18 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 19 CLASS SECURING OUR FUTURE By Giving Back: OF 1984 Class of 1984 Joseph Alvarez Michael Pullella Rob Simonetta John Finan by Kimm Bailey Arnold Belsanti Giovanni Rizzo Fernando Souza Timothy Fitzpatrick Marco Berardi Edward Roddy Richard Stanley Brian Friel e Class of 1984 has been meeting for dinner yearly since ere have been many graduates who have been involved in John Bolan Pasquale Rotundo Joe Tainta Wayne Gallant 1988. Over the years, the event has moved to many venues: donating to the fund. It all started from the class wanting to Remi Brunka Neil Salmon Frank Vecchiarelli Charles Gilbert Mr. Green Jeans, Alex’s Restaurant, Boccaccio Ristorante, and stay connected and share memories. Over the years, most of Michael Buchanan Joseph Servidio Anthony Veres Tony Giovenco nally, home to St. Michael’s College School. the class members have been able to a end at least one Nick Cardinale Frederick G. Smith Jan Wiszniewski Thomas Keenan dinner. ey know and fully understand the feeling of being Donald Cavaliere Peter Sol Thomas C. Flavin Kevin Kozicz It was at one of the annual gatherings that the class felt they connected – to each other and to St. Michael’s. Robert Chase Frank Stagliano David Sylvester John Locke owed something back to the school. e idea was put forth, Paul Cobban Peter Szydlowski Simon Van Wonderen Paul Masciarelli and the fundraising began, for the establishment of the Class irty- ve years of camaraderie and giving, and more than 15 D'Arcy Corcoran Frank Trentadue Thomas Kaschuk John McGuire of 1984 Bursary. e class felt this was the one way to ensure years of helping students a end St. Michael’s College School - Paul J. Costa Francesco Villiva Jeffrey Locke† Joseph Melo that the Basilian Fathers’ mission of an independent Catholic truly a class aiding in the school’s mission to graduate young Michael Crombie Tom Walsh Enrico Palummieri Rob Nicolson education continue for all students. men who will change the world through lives of faith, charac- Michael Currie Michael Zahra Vincent Lupo Kieran Nolan ter, and service. Steven Del Fatti L. M. Junior Del Brocco Eric Gomes Led by Marco Berardi ’84, Fabiano Micoli ’84, Ed Roddy Robert Papp John Della Mora Francis Crispino Frank Ferreira ’84, and Luciano Scatozza ’84, the Class of 1984 Bursary e Class of 1984 challenges other classes to give back to the Sebastien Piller-Tahy Thomas Donaghy† Richard A. Arcand Andrew Fisher was established to enable a student with nancial need and a school in a similar fashion. If you are interested in learning Mario Ruggiero Greg Drechsel Peter Belsanti Nestor Gula high academic standard to a end St. Michael’s College how to establish a bursary or hold a reunion, connect with the David Rutherford Dennis Fabro Alan Braganza Vytas Cuplinskas School. e award is given to one student for a maximum of Advancement & Alumni A airs Oce through [email protected] Paulo A. Santos James A Fantin Terry Brooks Darius Cuplinskas four years (Grades 9 through 12) provided the nancial need or [email protected]. Joseph Sponagle Michael Feltrin Patrick Butler Michael Dawson continues and he maintains the criteria requirements. e Gregory Taylor Robert Filicetti Brian Cato David Ellingwood Class of 1984 Bursary fund currently has $108,000 and has Vince Tedesco awarded approximately $24,000 since 2007. Each of the last Peter Flynn Renato Chiappetta Carlo Salvadori Andrew Williams two years the recipients has received $6,000. Anthony Fornasier Adrian Cieri Christopher Schroeder Peter Godec Michael Gagliardi John S. Coffey Richard Strazds Anthony Coscarelli George Giannone Matthew Dawson Peter Tramontin Ottavio Di Santo Matthew M. Gyulay Adriano Della Mora Nigel Trott Marc Mercier Timothy J. Hannan Romeo Di Nunzio Sean Brown Arn Kashino Vince Evangelista Jose Couto Hugh Hart Timothy Keon Angelo Falcone Mario Zeskoski Taras Kalymon Kenneth Kubecka Victor Farrace Michael Bilaniuk Marc M. Colvin† James Madigan Pietro Ferrari Sandor Buza Stephen Barry Paul McDonald Domenic Fusca Carmine Masciangelo Pasquale Cuda Paul McDonough Ed Jaworski John Guiry Peter Ferrari Fabiano Micoli John Krasnick Tony Anderson Tom Petric Pasquale Morra Brian McDougall John Birinyi Andrew J. Bayley Thomas Mudrinic Christian Mettel John Boroniec Robert Leon Michael Ortelli Vincent Park Peter Boross-Harmer Walter Palma Ronald Palleschi Domenic Rotundo Patrick Churchill John Paterson Sergio Scarcella Marco Clausi HONORARY: Michael Peacock Luciano Scatozza James Coffey Joseph Younder ’56 Gianfranco Pellicori Raymond M. Shu Manuel Fernandes Hugh McDougall, OSM
20 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 21 Dusan ’05 and Nela are they now Pedro Pessoa ’09, a veteran of Ryerson’s iBoost business WHERE incubator, has been involved in the Alumni Association Petkovic were married mentoring initiatives. He is exhibiting his app, kibii, at on August 30, 2018 in Collision Conference this week, with the primary objective of Castillo de San Marcial, Mentoring Mentions obtaining a seed round of Barcelona, Spain. funding to be used for Luca Tonin '12 was reaching out to people he knew for marketing. Kibii is a social guidance, sponsorship, and support to help with the job planning app that helps you on making career changes. is year, the commi ee was excited search process during his last semester at Schulich. rough discover new things to do, to welcome Susan Motkaluk as the keynote speaker. Susan has St. Michael's, he became connected with Frank Di Nino '80, but faster than anywhere led organizations through substantial growth while providing Aidan Dineen '03 and his wife, Dr. Katrina Dineen, welcomed then-President of the Alumni Association and a manager at else. It also lets you make sustainable solutions. She is a community builder with a focus on TD. As Luca was specializing in Finance, he took the opportu- plans to do the things you partnerships, communication, and nding common goals with their son, Connor, on October 15, 2018. He was cheered on by nity to schedule a meeting with Frank. want to do as well as easily multiple stakeholders. Susan provided tips and advice on how to his older sister, Evelyn. Retired grandparents, Terrence ’74 and invite your friends to come maximize the benets of networking experiences. Siobhan, are delighted to see their duties expanded. “Frank put me in contact with an o ce and I landed an along for the fun. interview there,” says Tonin. “ at interview then led me to Joe Younder ’56 founded an annual spring tradition which the Commercial Account Manager position I have held for Kibii recently conrmed partnerships with City of Vaughan, this year took place on April 11. It involves a group of alumni almost three years now, which I thoroughly enjoy as I work Kleinburg, and Queen’s University of Charlo e. Pedro volunteering a morning of their time to visit with soon-to-be with great leaders.” Luca will be a ending law school this Andrew Haugh ’02, and his wife, mentioned, “At this point in our development, scaling fast is graduates in their homerooms. As a former student and teacher September. He intends to stay connected with the School’s Christina, welcomed Savannah critical and that takes venture capital. If anybody reading this at SMCS, Joe saw a need to foster these important connections community and has already met several lawyers and graduat- into the world on July 18, 2018. is interested in learning more I’d be glad to have a chat on the between alumni. And so the annual Alumni Homeroom Visits, ing law students who have o ered him advice. now more than 10 years old, were born. phone or meet in person for a co ee.” “Over the years the alumni history of the school has been told “We believe that entrepreneurship runs deep within the Alex Stoikos ’15 recently dropped by the Alumni O ce for a by its pictures on the walls and conversation, but there must be St. Michael's community, in its spirit and as a tangible entity Paul Santi '99 dropped by to visit visit and to share news that he more ‘esh’ presence,” says Younder. “ e purpose is for those that runs around the yellow-brick walls,” says Pedro, who the Alumni O ce, now located in has been accepted into the graduating students to informally meet, listen to, and dialogue Master of Arts in Applied notes that Kibii is very interested in collaboration with others. with members of St. Michael’s College School. When I was a the arena above the Alumni Health Sciences programme “We thought it would be a good idea to ask other alumni to teacher, I always took advantage of such visits to have the grads Room. "It's a great space, I at Brock University. He says help us in a small way based on what we view as that shared drop into my classes and say a few words. I enjoyed it.” remember taking music here belief. If sometime today or in the near future you could his mentor, Joe Jackman ’79, when I was a student. Grea download the app from kibiiapp.com, or leave a review of has been nothing short of is year, 11 SMCS graduates spoke to Grade 12 students. memories for sure." amazing. Since connecting at a what you thought on the Google Play or Apple App stores, it Among the key topics: the importance of being a St. Michael’s SMCS Networking Event in would be of great help and assistance to us. Most of all, we’d alumnus, the benets of staying connected to the alumni August 2017 they touch base on a quarterly basis through phone, like people to give our app a try — if those people are part of network – including various mentorship and networking Joe Vernon ’98 relates that a group from his class has been emails, and in person. Alex nds that Joe’s expertise and experi- our SMCS community, so much the be er. I love my school opportunities - and understanding how the St. Michael’s ence in the sports industry align with his career aspirations and it still means the world to me 10 years later.” community continues to remain accessible and supportive ge ing together for the past six or seven years for an annual perfectly, having completed an undergraduate degree in Brock beyond graduation. pickup skate at St. Mike’s Arena. ey convene aerwards at University’s Sport Management programme. “Joe is always Ma Montemurro ’05, Ron Scara le ’05 and the Alumni the bar formerly known as Legends, although depending on available and has given me advice on networking, my resume, Association hosted an Alumni Networking Event on Tuesday, “It’s important for me to give back to St. Michael’s, especially turnout, they do sometimes go instead to the bar formerly the students, by answering life questions, talking about and job interviews,” says Stoikos. “On top of the advice and May 7. e focus of the known as Sports Cafe. ey met last on Friday, December 28, event was to connect alumni university, life outside these yellow brick walls, and making experience, Joe is very connected within the sports industry and 2018, with everyone happy for an opportunity to get together helps me connect with other professionals. I would 100 per cent from various professions for them understand that the alumni are always here for them and break bread. “Monticolo ’98, Spinozzi ’98, Suppa ’98, recommend the mentorship programme to my peers. Not only is general networking, job and have them realize how much of a network they have and Minichillo ’98 are in the shape of their lives, and the rest it helpful and unique, but St. Mike’s boys look out for their own, opportunities, professional within this school,” says Alex Alberelli ’12, who has been a always.” school applications, and tips part of the alumni homeroom visits for several years. of us were just trying to keep up,” said Vernon.
22 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 23 Dr. Peter Zavodny ’97, and his I clearly recall his Leonard ‘Red’ wife, Lydia, welcomed Julian silver medal perfor- Kelly ’44, OSM AROUND the Rink Michael and Marcus Florian to mance at the OFSAA Honoured by By Peter Fillman their family on September 22. cross country cham- Red Wings Two-year-old Alexander is excited pionships one year (I for the new playmates. think it was 1990) On January 31, losing only to the 2019, the Detroit John Wassenaar ’92, CFA, CMT, is a trader in Toronto with great Kevin Sullivan, Red Wings retired During his time with the Leafs, Virtu Financial, formerly known as ITG Financial. He was who remains one of Leonard ‘Red’ Kelly was elected a Member diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in the Spring of 2013. the most decorated Kelly’s No. 4 at a of Parliament for York West. John has relentlessly fought the disease over the course of 14 distance runners in ceremony in front He served from 1962-65, playing surgeries and dozens of Canadian history. Notably, he and his teammates captured of a sold out crowd for the Leafs on the weekends rounds of chemotherapy four consecutive OFSAA team championships in Cross of 19,500 at Lile and spending his time in Oawa and radiation - all while Country. John was the leader and best runner on those great Caesar’s Arena. It is during the week. A er his playing pursuing his passion for teams. Of course, Patrick Monahan and I will never forget our said that Kelly was days were over, he coached the stock trading. He even fantastic trip to Paris, France for the World High School the straw that Los Angeles Kings, Pisburgh went so far as to complete Championships that we quali ed for and represented Canada stirred the drink of the great Detroit teams of the 1950s. Penguins, and the Leafs over a his third exam for the at in 1990. John was in many ways a source of remembrance During his time with the Red Wings as a key defenseman, the ten-year period. team nished rst eight times and appeared in the nals seven Certi ed Market Techni- from that historic trip. times, winning four Stanley Cups. While with the Red Wings, Kelly was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1969 and cian designation while Kelly was the rst Norris trophy winner as the NHL’s best was ranked 22nd on the list of the 100 Greatest Players in receiving a chemotherapy Paul Grod ’90 was celebrating the Orthodox Church of defenseman in 1954. He also won the Lady Byng trophy four NHL History. He was made a member of the Order of infusion. Ukraine gaining independence from Moscow. He was in times. Canada in 2001 and in recognition of his continuing support Istanbul with Metropolitan Epiphanius in advance of signing of the St. Michael’s community, he was appointed a member John was an American the ‘tomos of autocephaly’ with Ecumenical Patriarch Born in Simcoe County, Ontario, on July 9, 1927, Kelly came of the Order of St. Michael in 2004. Division I collegiate schol- Bartholomew of Constantinople. to St. Michael’s in 1943. A er playing for the school’s Midget arship track and eld athlete, distinguishing himself academi- team and the Buzzers, Kelly played for the Majors under cally by obtaining a perfect score on the senior investment legendary coach Joe Primeau ’28 from 1945-47, winning a exam during his graduation year at the Wallace E. Carroll Memorial Cup in 1947. Kelly returned to Ontario when he School of Management at Boston College. Before he joined Joncarlo Lista ’81, a very was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1960. He spent Virtu, John held trading positions in the Toronto, New York, active alumnus around the seven years with the Leafs, where he won four Stanley Cups Connecticut, and Bermuda o ces of Investors Bank and school, dropped by to visit the while playing centre. Trust, CF Global, National Bank Financial, and Olympia Alumni O ce. Capital International. Having grown up in North Leaside, Over the course of 1470 John is the second of four children to Dr. Willem and regular season and playo Rosemary Wassenaar. When he’s not stalking the trading games spanning 20 years, oor, you can nd John out on a shing charter somewhere Kelly’s penalty minutes warm or proudly cheering on his nieces and nephews in their Dave Tra ord ’79, Tom Knight ’79, and John C. Sinclair totalled a paltry 378, an latest adventures. ’79 staged a live original musical production inspired by average of less than 20 Martin Luther King Jr.. Called to Freedom was wrien, minutes a season. e late “John will forever be in my thoughts as one of the most directed, and produced by Traord, with musical direction by Ted Lindsay ’46 described colourful personalities and gi ed athletes of all the students Sean Mayes. ree shows were held, February 22 and 23, at Red Kelly as a “quiet, easy and young men I have ever had the pleasure of being associ- the Miles Nadal JCC Al Green eatre. e show included 14 going guy who just went ated with - an outstanding competitor who would bale any foe songs wrien by Traord and inspired by the social justice about doing his job, a man As the Blue Banner was going to press, we received the sad news that Red Kelly, truly the embodiment of the St. Michael’s Man, had on the trails and on the track with almost awless success,” says gospel of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. who never swore. It was always ‘aw shucks’, ‘dog passed away. We will have full coverage in the next issue. SMCS Coach Frank Bergin. “Among his greatest achievements gone it’ or ‘gee whiz’”.
24 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 25 DON MILLS FLYERS LEVE GE ST. MIKE’S CONNECTION IN MEMORIAM Marc Slawson ’96, Head Coach of the GTHL Don Mills Flyers Minor Midget AAA hockey team, and his assistant, former Buzzer Jamie players. He was revered by the entire Red Wings organization. Edwards (1992-94), enjoyed a spectacular As a sign of respect, players and coaches, including Mike year. e Flyers not only won the 2018-19 Babcock, who prowled the bench in Detroit for several years, MTHL Minor Midget League Championship, always addressed Ted as ‘Mr. Lindsay’. but also the prestigious OHL Cup - defeating the Toronto Red Wings in a come-from-behind 4-3 overtime In 1996, Ted was inducted to the Hockey Hall of Fame. His win. Marc and Jamie’s team had a remarkable 78 wins, one banner hangs in the St. Michael’s Arena alongside the other 14 loss, and three ties in the 2018-19 season. St. Michael’s members of the Hall. In 2008, the National Hockey League Players’ Association introduced the Ted Lindsay Award, given annually to the NHL’s most outstanding player as voted on by his peers.
Ted Lindsay ’46, known as ‘Terrible Ted’ for his ferocious Born in Renfrew on July 29, 1925, Lindsay grew up in play, died on March 4, 2019. He was 93. One of nine children, Kirkland Lake. In September 1943, he came to Toronto to Lindsay was ranked 21st on the list of the 100 Greatest Players play for the St. Michael’s Majors. At the end of that same in NHL History. In 2003, he was inducted into the Canadian season, he was loaned to the Oshawa Generals, helping them Sports Hall of Fame. In 2004, Canada Post honoured him by win the Memorial Cup. Ted’s teammates that season included immortalizing his image on a Canadian stamp. future NHLers Johnny McCormack, Jim ompson, Gus Mortson, and Frank Dunlap. at same team also produced Lindsay was part of one of the greatest lines in hockey history, three Basilian priests, Fr. Ted McLean, CSB, Fr. Gerald playing with Gordie Howe and Sid Abel. Ted won four ALUMNI PLAY LARGE ROLE IN SPENGLER CUP RUN Gregoire, CSB, and Fr. David Bauer, CSB ’44, who went on Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings during the early St. Michael’s was well represented at the 2018 Spengler Cup to found Canada’s rst National team in 1963. Lindsay never 1950s, winning the Art Ross Trophy in 1950 as the league’s this past December in Davos, Switzerland. Canada lost the played minor league hockey, making the seamless jump to leading scorer. He made the rst All Star Team eight times Detroit from the Majors. gold medal game to the host Swiss, 2-1, a er an 8-round and played in 11 All Star games. Ted played 17 seasons in the shootout. Team Canada’s General Manager was Sean Burke NHL from 1944-65, 14 with Detroit and three with Chicago. Ted founded the rst NHL Players’ Association in 1957, stand- ’85, who played 820 games for 9 NHL teams during an He appeared in a total of 1201 regular season and playo ing up for the players as they tried to form the rst players 18-year career that stretched from 1987-2007. Canada’s Head games. Lindsay nished his career with impressive totals in union. He was not well received by the league’s owners. In Coach was Kevin Dineen (SMCS 1980-81). Kevin played for both points and penalty minutes – 947 and 2002 respectively. retaliation, Jack Adams, the General Manager of the Detroit the Buzzers in 1980-81 and went on to play 1247 games with Red Wings, traded him to the Chicago Black Hawks. Lindsay six NHL teams from 1984-2003. Players on Team Canada Although only 5’8” and 163 lbs., Ted never backed down from played for the Hawks for three years and then le the game for included Daniel Vukovic (Buzzers 2002-04) who has played anyone. Over the course of his career, his total stitch count a year, before returning to Detroit to nish his career in 1965. Division 1 hockey in Switzerland for the past 11 years, a er was north of 600. He only knew how to play the game one way four years at Michigan State University, and Dominic Moore ST. MIKE’S PREVALENT AT OHL PRIORITY SELECTION – hard. Ted Lindsay was revered for his seless nature and consistent ’99, who played 998 games for 11 NHL teams from 2003-18. Congratulations to the following students selected in this year’s ability to put others rst. Although he was a terror on the ice, he In 1977, Lindsay was named General Manager of the Red Shortly a er the tournament, Moore signed a deal with the Jack Beck ’21 Marc Boudreau ’21 was a gentleman o it. His compassion for people was bound- OHL Priority Selection: , , Wings. A er a very successful season, he was named the ZSC Lions, in Switzerland, for the remainder of the 2018-19 less. He founded the Ted Lindsay Foundation, which has raised Owen Simpson ’21, Josh Orrico ’21, Robert Andreakos NHL’s Executive of the Year. Ted was a xture with the Detroit season. more than $4,000,000 for autism research and education. ’21, Joshua Rosenzweig ’21, Connor Butler-Driscoll ’21, organization, maintaining, until his passing, a stall in the Red Aidan Shepard ’21, and omas Stewart ’21. Wings dressing room, working out on a regular basis with the (Wri en by Peter Fillman)
26 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 27 Douglas Allen ’40 died peacefully at e Roxborough Cassandra and Alexis Keefe, Andrea Slogge, Aimee Roy and Retirement Residence in Newmarket, on September 22, Nicolas, James, and omas St. Marie, and great-grandsons, 2018. He was predeceased by his loving wife Maryann, his Jack and Sam Glenn. Gene joined the RCAF and was stationed parents Robert and Julien, and his in England during WWII. Upon his return home, he wasted brother William. Le to mourn his no time in marrying his sweetheart, Kay, and starting a family. passing are his children, Reginald He joined the CIBC and then worked for many of the rms on McLean, Mary Josephine Williams, Bay St. as a bond trader. Upon his retirement, Gene did not and Michael Allen. Doug also slow down, working for many more years selling Canada leaves seven grandchildren, Joseph Savings Bonds and playing badminton and tennis. Gene was a McLean, Sister Mary Margaret devout Catholic, and long-time member at St. John’s Church, Hope McLean, Christopher serving as a lector and usher. He was also a Knight of the Holy Williams, Trevor Williams, Kathleen Hegarty, Ashleigh Allen, Sepulchre. e family would like to thank the wonderful sta and Holly Allen. Doug gave up the life of con rmed bachelor- at the Veterans Centre for their loving care of Gene. hood at the age of 40 to wed Maryann and adopt the ready- made McLean family. Doug worked for many years in the John ‘Jack’ Joseph Drury ’45 died on November 14, 2018. nancial sector, rst with the Bank of Montreal and then later Born December 7, 1925, Jack was predeceased by his wife of with the Ontario Development Corporation. In addition to 68 years, Mary, by 33 days. A er his work and family responsibilities, Doug was also actively Mary's passing, Jack declined rapidly. involved with numerous outside interests and charities. He He leaves behind his children D'Arcy, was a former president of the Columbus Boys' Club, e Rosemary, and Mark, and his grand- Dr. John Killoran Wilson, OSM ’43 died on January 13, Physicians of Canada degree and joined the medical sta at Council of Catholic Charities for the Greater Toronto Region, children Darcy ’08, Alec ’13, Sarah, Rhys, and Liam. Jack was born in 2019, a er a brief illness and surrounded by his loving St. Michael's Hospital, in addition to the Faculty of Medicine and the University of St. Michael's College Alumni Associa- tion, as well a being a former Vice President of the Toronto Detroit, Michigan, but when he was family. Born March 27, 1925, Dr. John leaves his beloved at the U of T. St. Michael's Hospital took a leadership role in Junior Board of Trade. four his parents returned home to wife of almost 70 years, Patricia, and his nine children, Brian the care of cardiac patients. John was an integral part of the Moonstone, Ontario to raise their ’72, Gregory ’81, David ’83, Patricia Lang (Michael ’71), team that performed the rst successful heart transplant in Anthony Eugene ‘Gene’ St. Marie ’42 died peacefully, aged family. Growing up on a farm in rural Ontario during the Depression instilled very deep values of fairness, integrity, and Sheila Hoo, Barbara Poggi, Margaret Gregg, Mary Lou Canada in 1968. In 1970, he was appointed the rst Chief of 95, on February 12, 2018, at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre. Born September generosity in Jack that he demonstrated throughout his life. He Hurley, and John. He also leaves 38 grandchildren and 17 Cardiology at St. Michael’s - a position he held for 13 years - 19, 1922, Gene was lived with his grandmother in Toronto while aending high great-grandchildren. Predeceased by infant daughter Mary and an Associate Professor at the U of T. Along Dr. Clare predeceased by his school at De La Salle College and St. Michael's College School. Catherine, his parents William and Teresa Wilson, and his Baker, John led a cardiac team to Budapest in 1971, success- parents, John and In 1949, Jack was working as a geologist in Northern Ontario when he met a beautiful teacher named Mary Clemen. ey nine brothers and sisters, John was a proud graduate of St. fully treating patients by open heart surgery. John was Mary, his sister, Helen Enright, and were married a few months later. Together they raised their Michael's College School. He received his medical degree credited with introducing the cardiac condition Mitral Valve his third daughter, family, mostly in Toronto, although Jack's work took him to from the University of Toronto (U of T) in 1948, having Prolapse to the cardiologists of Hungary. In 1981, he was Dawn St. Marie. Madrid, Spain, where the family lived for a year. ey also lived been elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honour invested as Knight Commander of the Order of St. Sylvester, Le to mourn his in Kirkland Lake for two years, where Jack took part in discov- ering and developing the Adams Mine. A er spending a career Medical Society. A er six years post-graduate study in a Papal award. In 1999, he was inducted into the Order of St. passing are his loving wife of 70 prospecting, he brought his skills to the Ontario Securities Internal Medicine and Cardiology - the last year in London, Michael. John was proud of his medical career, but above all years, Kathleen, his Commission. Many thanks to the sta at Malton Village Long UK, on an RS McLaughlin Travelling Fellowship - John was his love for Patricia and his family. daughters, Judy Keefe, Pay Slogge, and Michelle St. Marie, Term Care facility for the kindness and compassion they successfully achieved his Fellow of the Royal College of and his son, Stephen. Gene also leaves his grandchildren, showed Jack in his last years.
28 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 29 Raymond Ho man ’52 died peacefully at the Queensway tion, a tennis player, and a Monday night bowler. He was a children, stepchildren, and grandchildren agree - he was William ‘Bill’ Reddall ’57, proud alumnus and teacher Carleton Hospital in O awa a er a lengthy illness, on Eucharistic minister and lector at Holy Trinity Church in happiest when he was combining them all. Mike taught the from St. Michael's College School and the University of August 8, 2018, at the age of 85. Predeceased by his parents, Georgetown and volunteered for many years with their meaning of friendship, the value of laughter, the strength of Toronto, has died. Loving husband and best friend to wife Ella and William ‘Mac’ Ho man of Barry's Bay, Raymond Hands on Housing programme. Bill was regarded by his commitment, the joy of people, and a love of life. See Joe Judy, Bill is survived by his son, David, daughter, Amy, and will be sadly missed by his only sister Elizabeth ‘Be y’ friends and family as the quintessential gentleman. He will Younder ’56’s reminisces about his old friend,Mike Lavelle grandchildren, Nora, and Stella. As it is wri en: "What no Pilgrim and her husband John. Lovingly remembered by his be fondly remembered and sadly missed. in e Way We Were (p.34) eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, wife of 61 years, Barbara Ho man, and their children Larry, what God has prepared for those who love Him." Kathy, and Paul, Raymond was the cherished grandfather of Terrance Edward Brooks ’53, LLB, QC died peacefully at Burt Clapperton ’55 died peacefully on October 7, 2018, Nathan, Lindsay, Taylor, Megan, Kendra, and Sydney. He was the Great War Memorial Hospital in Perth, Ontario on April a er a brief illness, with his family at his side. Burt is survived Basil eodore Arbour ’58 died peacefully with family at also a very special uncle to numerous nieces and nephews, 13, 2019. Born July 17, 1934, Terrance was the father-in-law by his loving wife of 56 years, Gail, his three children, David, his side on November 15, 2018. His greatest loves were his and had many dear friends. A er his graduation from of current faculty member Elizabeth Rush Brooks. Loving Christopher, and Melissa, and his six granddaughters. children, Jean-Paul, Monique, and Nicole, as well as his Queen's University, Ray spent most of his career working as a husband of the late Lore a Brooks and cherished father of grandchildren Tyler, Emma, and Kyle. Dearest brother of metallurgical engineer for Falconbridge Nickel Mines (now John ’80, Patrick ’82, Terry ’84, Edward ’88, Ma hew Patrick Cushing ’56 died September 27, 2018, with no pain, Edmund ’51, Msgr. E. Allen ’53, John ’56, and Dianne, Xstrata). He spent many hours enjoying and playing ’89, Martha, and Sarah, Terrance leaves twenty grandchil- in the arms of his daughter Erica. Also the father of Kerry and Richard, Bernade e, Linda, and eresa, Basil will be baseball, hockey, golf, and curling with close friends and dren and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves his broth- Ted, Patrick was born in cherished and deeply missed by his many nieces and neph- family. Special thanks to Dr. Inouye and the sta of the ers Bill ’67 and Michael ’71. Terry was predeceased by his Toronto, on December ews. Basil will also be fondly remembered by the sisters Queensway Carleton Hospital for their care and a ention to parents, Dr. Edward F. and Isobel Brooks, his brother D’Arc y 15, 1937. His grandsons and sta atSt. Bernard's Residence, as well as the many his needs. Also special thanks to his niece, Bridget Wa ers, ’54, and his four sisters, Mary, Patsy, Be y, and Susan. A er will miss him and the joy former colleagues and students he met throughout his for her advocacy for his palliative care and compassion graduating from Queen's Law School, Terry joined the rm he brought them through- teaching career. towards the end of his life. Fasken & Calvin, where he practiced until 1985. He later out their childhoods. went on to practice law for the Ontario Government. Terry Patrick grew up in Sudbury James William ‘Bill’ Noonan ’52 of Washington DC, died enjoyed time with family and friends, especially his many and then went to Toronto David Broadhurst ’59 peacefully, following a short illness on July 23, 2018, at summers, and then his years living, at Christie Lake. His last to a end high school at, died October 18, 2018. theage of 84. Bill is survived by years were spent in comfort, surrounded by friends at and play hockey for, David was the brother of Suzanne, his dear wife of 59 Carolina Retirement Residence in Perth. e family would St. Mike’s. Patrick later William ’46, and years, his four children and their like to thank the residents, sta , and volunteers at the received a scholarship to play hockey for the University of omas ’50, and the spouses, and his seven grand- Carolina Residence for the respect, love, and care with which Michigan. ese years were some of the favourites in his life. uncle of David ’78, and daughters, who he referred to as they treated Terry. e family is also grateful to the sta of He was a fraternity brother of Phi Delta eta. He graduated omas ’73. his ‘lovely girls’. Born, raised, nurses and doctors at the Great War Memorial Hospital for from the University of Michigan and went on to be a safety and educated in Toronto, Bill their gentle care and guidance. engineer at General Motors for many years. Patrick took was predeceased by his parents, early retirement and enjoyed at least one and sometimes two Dr. William T. Noonan and Michael Lavelle ’54 died on October 3, 2018 a er a brief rounds of golf per day! His biggest loves were his grandkids, Mary Helen Johnstone, and his sister, Sally Mae Forgie. ba le with cancer. Born September 8, 1936, in Toronto, hockey, and golf. During his distinguished career with American Airlines, Michael was an all-star athlete and scholar in his youth. which spanned 36 years and three countries, (Canada, He was known as ‘Papa Panther’ to grandson Andrew’s United States, and Barbados), Bill earned national and He brought his love of learning and sport to his career as hockeyteam, was the biggest cheerleader at grandson Zac’s international recognition and respect. He subsequently ateacher and coach at St. Michael's College School from swim meets, and a well-loved prankster at his long-term care joined the Airline Transport Association in Washington, 1958-65. A er leaving St. Michael's, Mike spent the next 40 home. Grandson Eric once picked a week with grandpa over DC, retiring permanently in 1996. Bill served as Chairman years teaching at the University of Waterloo, McMaster a trip to Florida. ere are so many people who feel a loss at of the Board of Governors at Kenwood Country Club, University, and the University of Toronto. Above all, Mike his passing and will miss him dearly. where he was an avid member of the Senior Golf Associa- loved his family, discussions, and books. As all of his
30 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 31 Hubertus ‘Hubert’ Schaefer Joseph Przybylo ’70 died peacefully and surrounded by his Michael Labinjo ’99 died on Saturday, September 22, 2018. Kristine, loving father of Kern and Hazel, and beloved son of ’63 died peacefully on Febru- family, at Lakeridge Health in Oshawa on February 10, 2019, Michael was the beloved father of Hailey, son of Margaret, Anne and Ken. Devoted brother of Kenneth and Andrew, ary 16, 2019, gratefully accept- a er a courageous ba le with cancer. Beloved husband of and brother to Randy ’01. While at St. Michael's, Mike was a respectful son-in-law of Zora Jereos, and brother-in-law of ing an escape from a painful Anna, loving father of Paul ’97 and Michael ’02, Joseph was multi-sport athlete competing in track and eld, basketball, Karen, Malcolm was loving uncle to Calum, Maeve, and and debilitating condition. the proud and cherished Dziadzia of Ava and Lauren, dear and football. As a member of the Blue Raiders basketball Bronwyn, nephew of Joan and Norm Graham, Nancy and Born March 29, 1945, Huber- brother of Edward, and son-in-law of Maria Debicki. He will programme, he was part of both Bantam and Senior TDCAA Ron MacKinnon, Charlene Ma ila and Charles Duncan, tus was the last ethnic German be sadly missed by his nephew and godson Daniel Garbicz championships. Mike found his love for football playing for and cousin of Laura, Trevor, Carolyn, Paul, Kevin, and Jenni- to be born in the village of Schü enitz, in the Protectorate of ’11 and extended family and friends in Canada, Poland, and the Kerry Blues, leading them to the 1998 Metro Bowl fer. Malcolm was also the dear friend of Dan ’01 and Bohemia and Moravia (Sudetenland). Shortly a er the around the world. Joe’s working career was with General Championship under coach Paul Forbes. Voted 'most likely Michelle Grossi, who are godparents to his children. cessation of hostilities on May 8, 1945, the ethnic cleansing Motors of Canada, starting at the Scarborough van plant, to be a professional athlete' by his classmates, Mike's many e ect of forced expulsions mandated by the Beneš Decrees then moving onto Oshawa before taking on responsibilities high school accomplishments were recognized when he was commenced. Hubertus and family now found themselves in for international service - which took him around the world, named Athlete of the Year in his Grade 13 year. Mike's high PLEASE ALSO REMEMBER FRIENDS AND FAMILY the southern German city of Karlsruhe. Here they resided including a two-year assignment in Israel. Joe was a founding school football accomplishments earned him a scholarship OF THE ST. MICHAEL’S COMMUNITY for almost seven years, before an application to immigrate to and active member of the St. Isaac Jogues community, a to Michigan State University. As a member of the Spartans Aldo Caputo, grandfather of Alexander Cauchi ’22; Robert Canada was led. Acceptance was granted, an act Hubertus member of the Knights of Columbus and the head of the football programme, Labinjo earned a honourable mention Rocco, father of Julian ’06 and David ’10; Mark Poole, never forgot in his adult life and for which he was immensely Refugee Commi ee. He was also a former trustee with the All-Big-Ten selection and was the Spartans' defensive MVP in grateful. Durham Catholic District School Board. Joe’s family would 2003. Labinjo graduated with a Bachelor's degree in father of Spencer ’15 and Graeme ’17; Karen Fabro, mother like to thank the sta of the Supportive Care Unit of Economics and Finance before beginning his professional of Michael ’92; Loris Gilles Cece, cousin of David Basciano A er a 12-day sea voyage, disembarkation at Halifax ensued. Lakeridge Health Oshawa for their care and support. football career. Labinjo's NFL career lasted from 2003-07, ’19; Donald Pa erson, grandfather of James McKay ’23; ey were directed to Orillia to nd work but there was where he played 10 games, highlighted by his participation in Marziale Mirijello, grandmother of Nicholas ’16 and Julian none, so Toronto became the next destination. Here Huber- Michael Flynn ’72 died in his sleep, peacefully, March 1, the 2004 Super Bowl. Following his career in the NFL, Mike ’19; Vincenza ‘Jenny’ Santi, grandmother of Paul ’99, David tus resided for 51 years, with a two year hiatus in Gardena 2019, in Cheltenham, UK. Loving father of Jennifer, joined the CFL's Calgary Stampeders, winning the Grey Cup ’03, Marc ’01 (predeceased); Peter Qui enton, father of and San Francisco, California. Florence, and Beatrix, Michael is remembered by their in 2008. Once his football career ended, Labinjo joined First Andrew ’07, Richard ’10, and John ’12; Eleanor McDou- mother Wendy. Michael was the beloved son of Judy and Service Residential as a Community Manager in March gall, wife of Hugh McDougall (former SMCS faculty Hubertus a ended Catholic grammar schools and then Jack, brother of Jill Patricia and uncle of David Flynn Arthur. 2014. In living memory of Mike, a tree was planted at Fish member), mother of Peter ’87, Brian ’84, and Elizabeth St. Michael’s College School. is led to St. Michael’s College Creek Provincial Park in Calgary, Alberta. (current SMCS faculty member); Randy Fung, grandfather at the U of T and then Atkinson College at York University. Andrej Markes ’73 died suddenly on March 12, 2018, due of Troy Koch ’23; Angela Marino, aunt of Andrew ’13, He worked sanding cars to be painted, manufacturing alumi- to pancreatic cancer. Predeceased by his parents, Peter and William Luciano Asaro ’00 died on December 25, 2018. Daniel ’16, and Ma hew ’19; Nicola Tomasone, grandfa- num siding, and mixing bread at the A&P bakery. Later he Marija, Andrej leaves behind his wife and soul-mate, Linda, A boy with a sensitive soul and the biggest heart, in the end, ther of Christian Leone ’19; Barbara Ha ey, mother of Joe worked for the Metropolitan Separate School Board from whose life he shared for 36 years. He also leaves behind his it was his heart that failed him. Adoring father of Santino and ’73, Dan ’77, and Sam ’82; Urban Gibbs, grandfather of 1967 until 1990. Upon the passing of his mother in 2002, loving daughter Sonia and her husband Jonathan and dear Tanina and cherished son of Susan and Simon, William was Graeme ’19 and Spencer Gibbs ’19; Guiliano Santi, cousin Hubertus divested all real estate holdings and moved to his son James, whose lives he faithfully nurtured and supported the best brother to Nicholas and Amanda, and Daniella and of Luca Tonin ’12 and Marco Tonin ’19; Alfred ‘Fred’ beloved Upper O awa Valley, where he pursued interests in as a proud father. Dear brother of Peter ’73, Andrej also Jesse. Amazing uncle to Liam, Andrew, Vivian, and Juliet, shing, gardening, birding, and woodworking. leaves behind his loving sister Carmen, the beloved extended William was the adoring grandson of Vivian and Luciano Merlocco, father of Fred ’67, father-in-law to Nick Bellisa- Cuthbert family, and many nieces and nephews. Manzon and of Tanina and Nicolo Asaro. He will be truly rio ’57, and grandfather to George Merlocco ’00 and John D. Bertram ’69 died peacefully missed by his loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Anthony Merlocco ’02; Eodoardo Pace, grandfather of in his home on September 9, 2012. Michael Plonka ’98 died on August 29, 2018. Michael will Maurizio Pace ’21; Lynn Fontaine, mother of Andrew Beloved father to Laura, Heather, and be missed by his loving parents, sister, family, and many Malcolm Francis MacKinnon ’01 died on April 9, 2019. Yates ’20; Marianna Winiarz, mother in law of Michael Jennifer, brother to Marilyn and friends. Born January 21, 1982, Malcolm was the beloved husband of Balawejder ’78 and grandmother of Eric Balawejder ’12. Brian, and loving partner to Randy Jackson, he will be sorely missed and always remembered.
32 i BLUEBANNER BLAZING A TRAIL FOR OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE STUDENTS i 33 Frank McGrath ’44, President of Brebeuf College School THE WAY WE WERE: Alumni Association says: “Mike had a tremendous impact Remembering Mike Lavelle ’54 on my life and on the lives of thousands of students he taught Joe Younder ’54 and mentored at the University of Toronto, Mississauga as the Director of Residence Life. Mike always put the students rst and gave us a chance to grow, to fail and learn, and to try Michael John Lavelle, born in 1936, ‘Big Mike’, surrounded by again. Whether it was the basketball players he coached, the his loving family and friends, passed away peacefully on students he taught, the residence students he mentored, October 3, 2019, a er a brief ba le with cancer. Mike, prede- Mike had an incredible ability to connect with young people. ceased by his wife of 47 years, Frances Lavelle, is survived by ere are countless stories of Mike quietly helping to nd a his wife Dr. Diane Malinowski, his children, Cathie (Dr. Mark student a job, or to arrange nancial assistance for a student Smith), Janine, LeAnne, Christine (Doug Martin), Michael struggling to pay tuition, or help someone dealing with a ’88 (Jodi Herold), his step-children, Christina (Tim Crowe) dicult family situation. Even a er graduation, my relation- and Mike (Marisa Ricci) and his greatest joy, his grandchil- ship with Mike did not end. Mike remained our teacher, our dren: Jordan ’06, Geo , Luke, Sophie, Georgia, Josh, Joe, Mathew, Ben, Ethan, Connor, Ella, Ma eo, Anthony, and mentor, our sounding board, and above all, a lifelong friend.” So a, his sister Lebby Lavelle, his brother Pat Lavelle ’58 and his grandson Andrew ’19. Geo Smith, President of EllisDon says: “‘I met Big Mike through his daughter Cathie when I was going through a Mike was indeed ‘big’ in every way: heart, laughter, learning, personal crisis. He reached right out and saved me. I had no friendships, and family. He was an all-star basketball and idea then that this was no big deal for Mike, that he had done at EllisDon still displaying Joseph Campbell’s great insight football player at St. Mike’s and later at Assumption Univer- the same for so many others over several decades. en he “e privilege of a lifetime is being who you are”. All thanks sity. He brought his love of sport and learning to his career Ted Schmidt ’57, lifelong friend and book club member came to EllisDon and changed us from a company of build- to (the very) Big Mike.” when he began teaching and coaching at St Michael's College relates: “I think I was one of the few who was in every home ers to a company of thinkers, one person at a time. His School in 1958, which led to a lifetime of championship wins, Mike ever lived in. He was a generous, big-hearted guy who impact was profound and permanent. ere are many oces I remember Mike as a classmate in the 50s and later as a teacher scholarly awards, and accolades. liked nothing be er than bringing people together to discuss along with Hugh McDougall OSM, Dan Prender- ideas. From the early 60s, he and Fran would host intermi- gast OSM and John Guerriere ’47. We were a tight For the next forty years Mike would go on to teach, coach, and nable drop-ins, generally on Friday night, wherever he lived. knit lay sta in those days and Mike taught me, and lead at the University of Waterloo, McMaster University, and e topic was always books, ideas: Dylan, Salinger, Camus, many others, how and what to read. Mike's career the University of Toronto. His awards and achievements were Bernanos, Dostoyevsky, Eliot. You never knew who you spanned six decades in which he taught us all the mean- numerous, including the Paul Fox Alumni Award. would meet there, but the three eldest Schmidts, Don ’59, ing of friendship, the value of laughter, the strength of His residence programme at University of Toronto, Larry ’61, and me, were o en in a endance, as were the many commitment, the joy of people, and a love of life. Mississauga did more than house students. His passion, students Mike taught or coached who became and remained commitment, and courage, brought the spirit of greatness to his friends. "We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can everything he touched. choose to live in joy." - Joseph Campbell.
He le a legacy of reading to his children and grandchildren Mike was an insatiable reader, so he started our book club A Celebration of Life was held on Tuesday, October 9 and to all those he met. When Mike retired from the Univer- about 25 years ago. He loved the interchanges, the rapport, at the Boulevard Club. e family has long been sity, he began a new adventure in the world of business with and most of all, the laughter. Mike reminded me of Nikos involved in St. Mike’s. Mike’s brother, Patrick, funds an Ellis Don working with executives as a motivator, speaker, Kazantzakis', Zorbas the Greek, a man who possessed what annual $1,0000 bursary, in his mother, Wylo’s name. mentor, and coach. "It is only with the heart that one can see Bergson called the élan vital, a vital life force. Zorbas at the rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye," a saying a rib- end of the great novel says, “Men like me ought to live a Mike will be missed. uted to St. Exupery, was his mantra. What others say of him thousand years.” In other words, Mike projected an eternal be er tells his story. energy, something that was unstoppable, life-giving.” anks to: Ted Schmidt, Pat Lavelle, Frank McGrath
34 i BLUEBANNER IN CHALLENGING TIMES STORIES MATTER i 35 @SMCS1852