Michael Gordon Meiklejohn

It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved son, grandson, nephew and cousin. He leaves behind to mourn his dad Gord Meiklejohn (Leanne), mom Maureen Wawro Meiklejohn (Dan), grandfather Peter Wawro and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins (the cousins share their memories below).

Michael was born on March 13, 1998 with severe medical issues and was given only ten days to live, but he was a fighter and proved that over and over again as he underwent numerous surgeries and lived with extreme cognitive and developmental issues. When he lived at home in the community, Michael especially loved his wagon rides with cousin Johann, long walks with dad in the neighbourhood, watching hockey games with Grandpa Ken and dad, bouncing on his trampoline and the many family gatherings. He attended Lord Roberts Day Care and Oakenwald School in their specialized programs, and loved to watch the activities around him at school and interact with the other children. At the age of 14, Michael found a new home at St. Amant Centre, where he enjoyed school, therapy, outings and, most of all, swimming. He also looked forward to seeing extended family and friends for birthday parties and other celebrations. Michael brought joy to everyone around him, with his smiles, laughter, clapping and noise, lots of noise! His affectionate pats on the back showed his fondness for those around him. His favourite days were when his best buddy, Daddy, came to visit, especially when they could curl up together and Dad would rub his back.

We wish to thank the staff, teachers and volunteers at St. Amant Centre for their years of care and dedication to Michael.

Donations to the St. Amant Foundation in Michael's name will be gratefully received.

Memories shared by the cousins:

Susan and Rick Kuffel family: Tom and Janique (Zack and Dax) Stephanie and Chris Ward (Bennett and Kenley) Amanda and Josh - When thinking back on the memories we shared with Michael, the first thing that came to our minds was his contagious smile and the excitement he always had being around his family. We all looked forward to seeing him no matter the occasion. From laying with him in grandma's and grandpa's living room playing with Elmo and watching tv, to his birthday parties at St. Amant, where we all would gather to celebrate Michael by eating cake and throwing balloons everywhere, making him clap and smile. Michael was always shining so bright and brought us all so much joy. We are so fortunate to have shared these memories with him. Michael, we hope you're up there with grandma and grandpa eating all the

chocolate in the world and cheering on the Jets! We love you!

Donna and Chris Lepa family:

Johann - Some of my earliest and fondest memories were walking over to Michael's at the house on Riverwood Avenue. I specifically remember and cherish the countless hours spent watching Blue's Clues and horsing around with him and his abundance of toys. This kind of thing happened quite often. I'll miss you and the joy you brought to this world, pal.

Jenna - While growing up, no matter how old I was, I will always remember being Michael's baby. Whenever we would visit, he would always tap me on the back and call me baby with his big contagious smile across his face. Michael had the biggest heart and was always so gentle and happy. I will always be your baby, Michael - Love you, Jenna

Heather and Kevin Brownridge family:

Our cousin Michael, the cousin that never stopped growing. Every time we saw him he was a foot taller than before. During family visits, he was so excited to see us. "Baby" he would say. We were happy that one of our cousins was louder than us. We will always remember his smile.

"You must want to fly so much that you are willing to give up being a caterpillar" - Winnie the Pooh Rest easy, Michael. Give Grandma and Gramps a good ol' smack from us. Love you,

Anna, Kayla and Kirsten

Joanne and Jerry Nemetchek family:

Brayden, Ethan and Tehya remember Michael always smiling and laughing. Ethan especially remembers going to St. Amant at Christmas and pushing Michael in his wheelchair through the

forest and bridge display. He remembers Michael clapping and smiling at the lights on the trees.

Delaney ('lil sister'). One of my favourite memories of Mikey is when I got to visit him

when Gord and mom were out of town. It was a rare opportunity to have his undivided attention, so I took full advantage of our time together. We watched Bear in the Big Blue House, ate

cookies, and of course he gave me lots of back pats. I'm so fortunate to have known such a happy boy, and I'll always think of him when I eat Aero chocolates or swear at a hockey game.

We love you, Mikey!