The Merrigan Family sadly announces the passing of our amazing father, Michael V. Merrigan, at the age of 95 after a brief illness . Dad was born and proudly raised in Halifax to the late Michael and Madeline (Smeltzer) Merrigan. He was pre-deceased by his true love Leonora (Musial) Merrigan, his brother, Gerald and sisters Madeline, Helena, Phyllis as well as his son-in-law James DeBay. He is survived by his faithful sister, Sister Marie Merrigan SC, as well as his children Michael, Myles, Marlene & Leonora (Charles). He was greatly loved and admired by his grandchildren Michael, Christine, Meghan, Dennis, Drew, Devin, Andrew, Michelle and Jillian as well as his great-granddaughters, Adelaide and Eleanore.
Gratitude was a prevailing sentiment throughout his life. He was grateful to his parents, siblings, and children for their unwavering support. He was grateful for growing up during The Depression and felt it was a great preparation for life’s journey. His strong Catholic faith stemmed from his early education by the Religious of the Sacred Heart and the Irish Christian Brothers. He was a proud graduate of St. Mary’s and Dalhousie Universities and the University of Toronto.
As an educator he was a teacher, a principal, a professor of Education at MSVU and finished his career as Executive Administrator to several presidents at The Mount. He felt his greatest achievement was that of ‘teacher’ and many students and student teachers would concur.
In 1948, he opened St. Stephen’s School and in conjunction with Monseigneur Leo Murphy helped develop the areas surrounding the church and school. He continued to proudly support the North End business community. In fact, upon retirement our parents established the business Peak Audio along with their son Michael. It was there where Dad enjoyed meeting customers, clients and reps or anyone who had the time to chat. His engaging personality ensnared the unsuspecting customer where stories were shared and advice dispensed.
Dad was generous by nature and happily supported the dreams and ventures of his children and grandchildren. This generosity was enjoyed by many, most notably those in need. From him we have learned the importance of family, faith and charity. We say good bye to a great dad and a true gentleman.
Resting at Cruikshank's Halifax Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor Street, Halifax. Visitation will be held on Monday, August 7th, 2017 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Mother Teresa of Kolakata Parish (formerly St. Stephen's) Normandy Dr., Halifax at 11am on Tuesday, August 8th. Family flowers only, please. If you so wish, donations may be made to Hope Cottage (https://www.hopecottage.ca). To send an online condolence to the family please visit: www.cruikshankhalifaxfuneralhome.com
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18