Michael Eric Pershaw

Beloved son of the late Eric "Roy" Pershaw and Phyllis Pershaw (Onion).  Predeceased by siblings Stephen and Jennifer. Survived by his children Samantha, Jeremy and Benjamin.  As well as his brother Daniel.

Remembered fondly by his dear friend Linda, her children Sarah (Jordan), Natalie (Shawn), Gordie (Chanel) and Andrea (Brian). Dearly missed Papa to Deklan, Keaton, Emery, Gabrielle, Ali, Holland and Jocelyn. Left to mourn Mike are countless quiet friendships that he has made over the years and the people he helped without giving it a second thought. 

Life can be dynamic, complicated and change course.  Depending on the time in Mike's life that you knew him, you may have a different account of who he was.  This is written from loving hearts by those who knew him the past 16 years to date.  The Mike we knew would grumble and make sarcastic jokes, but had the biggest heart and was willing to help anyone who needed it. Many household projects were completed by him or with his guidance.  Just don't ever ask to borrow a tool, or be prepared to have comments made!

Between working at the senior's residence and his many side jobs, Mike rarely had any downtime.  But when he did, you could usually find him in his garage drinking a Timmies, having a smoke and enjoying a good book.  A book he'd bike over to the library and sign out.  Mike loved classic rock and would always have his music playing.  If you sat around long enough you'd be sure to hear him sing along.  He sang so loud at the Beatles tribute concert at the NAC that people sitting around him and Sarah moved seats at intermission. 

Sarah and Mike had a very special bond.  He played a large part in her growing up.  Taking her to all her hockey games and practices.  Painting her bedroom the Leafs blue, when he was a Red Wing fan.  Encouraging her in her education goals and to make a leap in her adulthood.  Mike was one of Sarah's biggest supporters and affectionately called her Shorty.  Mike's response to Sarah saying she loved him was "thanks" and cracked everyone up.  But in all seriousness it was her he asked for in the hospital and he did say that it meant a lot to him.

To us, he was Mike.  But to some little people in his life, he was Papa.  The kids loved spending time with him and he got a kick out of their antics.  We laugh in later years, but it was Mike's ability to calm a screaming toddler Deklan, that allowed Natalie to go on dates with her now husband Shawn.  He'd show Deklan things out the window to distract him; this must be when the squirrel fascination began.  Not Deklan's, but Mike's. Every drawing, card or piece of art given to him, was proudly hung on the side of the fridge.  This Christmas the kids were running, jumping and squealing with delight playing with the mini drones he got them.  It was bittersweet and moved some to tears.

Linda and Mike had a unique relationship.  They understood each other and were best friends.  If you found Mike relaxing in the garage, beside him would be Linda.  He always wanted the best for her and would tell her children how proud he was of them, when they went out of their way to do something for her.  Coffee runs, good home cooked meals and all household repairs were his simple ways of showing he cared.  To be missed are his hugs and the sound of him calling her Linda-Lou. 

We'll miss Mike's presence at our tables.  Making sure he always had a large glass of milk sat before him.  We'll miss the way he made a special effort to make conversation with all the in-laws and guests who joined us.  It won't be the same on the next house project, looking to Mike for his opinion and to get his subtle approval on a job well done.  To see him dance at a wedding.  And to hear his voice.  But we pray he is now welcomed at the table of the Lord and we will one day see him again at the eternal feast.

We would like to give special thanks to Dean, Ram and Varsha for being there with Mike in his last days. 

Interment at Notre Dame Cemetery 455 Montreal Road on Saturday January 6, 2024 at 10:00am. Reception to follow. All are welcome to attend.