Mike was a true unionist. But he was a very fair man and a pleasure to work with for 20 years. I still think of him and our years together. Regards,  Phil Dontigny

Worked with Mike at Reynolds. I was the plant manager and Mike the very fair minded union president. Very fond memories of our amicable working relationship.  RIP ..with love and respect. Phil Dontigny 

Think of you every day
Miss you so much.
Love you forever 


He flew up to heaven on the wings of an Angel, and he walks with Jesus and his loved ones waiting, and I know he's smiling, saying "don't worry bout me"

It's been almost a year since you left us so unexpectedly and it hasn't gotten any easier.
In July we will have one last family party with you when we all take you home to Newfoundland. This last year has gone by so fast and yet it seems like yesterday, I miss talking to you about hockey, I miss driving you places, I miss you answering my phone calls saying 'how you doing' and ending 'with catch ya later'. I even miss our little arguments over our different stand on things...you just walk away shaking your head..lol
I just miss you ❤

Love you always....miss you forever
Joanie

To Mike's family, my belated but heartfelt condolences. I only learned of Mike's passing today, November 13.

Mike and I go back a long way in our Union, but having been retired for 8 years I've lost touch with a lot of friends, including Mike.

Mike was a true champion for the working class. A hard working, militant Steelworker.

Somehow the fight will go on without Mike, but something tells me it will be a lot tougher now.

Rest in peace, Mike. You've earned it.

Well Mike this is your big weekend Comming up,so the family is going to march in honor of you at the parade this year I know you will be marching right beside us.Miss you more than words can say.R.I.P my big Bro,You are missed and Love so much and by so many..xoxo

Well Mike it has been a little over a month that you left us so suddenly.There are no words to descibe how I feel. The worst day of my life was the day we said good bye to you. Our family has been broken and will never be the same. I miss our talks when I would drive you whereever you needed to go, I will miss your stories that you told, and there was lots of them, I never got tired of listening to them.
Sleep peacefully big brother...you will be forever in my heart..love and miss you so much

Sadly, I just found out yesterday that Mike passed away. I grew up in Aurora and knew him forever. The last time I saw Mike, was about a year ago on Main Street in Newmarket, where we chatted for a bit. Our common support of unionism and social democracy made for some great discussions! You will be missed :(

Mike was a wonderfully candid man with so much enthusiasm for life, the labour movement and the NDP. I will miss him as a friend at the OFL building, Labour Council of Toronto and York Region, rallies and events for the NDP in York Region and Toronto. Rest in peace, Mike, after such an active life of service to family, friends, community and the labour movement!

I hope you know how proud I am to be your niece. I've learned so much from your example not just your words. I will miss the conversations we had.I wasn't done learning from you. I will cheer our team on and think of you.  I will speak of you often and smile with the memories. I will love you forever.

From the day that I met Michael Seaward when I first started working for the Party in 1988, the month of October, he was always been a true friend who always shared his thoughts and welcomed everyone irrespective of their race, color or gender. I was away for two weeks and was out of internet zone and didn't see this sad news until I returned to Toronto. I will truly miss Mike's sweet words of encouragement towards the Party's future and the gifts of buttons dropped in my hands every time I see him. It was Mike who brought to me the First Party's Corporate Seal and told me to take care of it. I passed his message & the Seal to the Provincial Secretary she was very surprised. I will really miss you and Rest In Peace! Tad Kitaba (ONDP)

~ At our meeting on Tuesday, May 30th, we will be honouring the contributions made by the social justice warrior Mike Seaward. 

Remembering Mike Seaward - December 24, 1950 - May 20th 2017.

Rest in Peace.

No words still in shock RIP Mike love you forever

To Mike's family, my deepest sympathies. I knew Mike well over 30 years and worked on the co op project with him before we even had a hole in the ground. My husband and I were in another union, and walked each other's picket lines. In those earlier years our two unions weren't too friendly but we too the approach that there weren't enough union locals in Richmond Hill to quibble about those things. Lots of solidarity from the start. Even the birthday gift for my husband of all clothing a la USWA! Big laugh for all. My heart just will never be able to fill that spot he held. The funeral service would have been just what he wanted, and expected! March on Brother Mike. You will always be missed and loved

My deepest condolences to Mike's family and friends.  I was shocked and so very sad to hear of the sudden passing of Mike.  The world has lost a truly wonderful person.  RIP my dear friend, I will miss you

My deepest condolences to the Seaward family. Mike and I worked together on the LCS Board. His expertise  and ability to find solutions to major problems was invaluable to communities throughout the Greater Toronto Area. He was smart, charming and funny. He was a joy to work with. His presence will be sadly missed.

To the Seaward Families,
May you find comfort, strength & love                                                                                from all the happy memories.
Our condolences,                                                                                                                                The Wiggin family xoxo

My sincerest condolences to all in Mike's family for your enormous loss. There are clearly so many of us out here who are experiencing Mike's death as a personal loss that it must be a huge challenge for those closest to him to come to terms with it. Mike was always there for those of us who knew him through the NDP, the union movement, and through the many causes we had in common. Many years ago, when I was President of the ONDP Women's Committee, Mike was always a huge help to us in whatever way he could be. And one could always count on a friendly face and a friendly word  whether at a meeting, at a march, on the street, in an airplane!  He is missed and will continue to be. Rest in peace Mike.

To hear of Mike's passing was quite a shock. Mike has left a huge void in all the organizations that have grown so accustomed to having him and his spirited discussions around. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with his family and all who were touched by Mike's amazing life
..
Beverley Johnson

A fine trade unionist, thoughtful socialist, and unabashed feminist, Mike lived a genuinely progressive life. I miss him a lot already.

Eeeeee Uncle Mike.  My heart is broken.  You will be forever missed and always remembered.  Love you.  Hope you are up there with the family having some Newfie screech.

Mike Seaward was always a friend and brave warrior during public service battles in the Harris years and beyond.  He and our brothers and sisters from USW held the TTC tunnels during OPSEU strikes with us, for us, with great joy and fists held high.  It was a test of fortitude, determination and legal rights.  He and his like broke barriers.  Brother Seaward, thank you and we shall miss you.  

              Warren "Smokey" Thomas 
              President - OPSEU

It is with sadness that I am learning of Mike's passing. He was a great person and fun to be with. I worked with him on the Board Of Referees in Richmond Hill. So sorry for your loss. Beatrice Gallant

Mike Seaward's presence in the quest for social justice and the betterment of working people will be sorrowfully missed, but his spirit in that quest will live on in the hearts and minds of all those who knew him well while my thoughts and prayers in this moment of loss go to those who were dearest to Mike.

My condolences to the family. Mike was a great friend. I always new I could depend on Mike during my 10 years as National Director for the USW.
He was always there in every union actions.A kind and humain person that will be remembered by many.

Lawrence Mc Brearty, retired National Director for Canada USW.

To say that Mike will be missed is an understatement.  Not only was he always a part of my life...he was part of many. So many memories to which I will always cherish...I thank you Mike for all...each and every one.
Fly high Mike as you definitely are an angel that deserved those wings.
My deepest sympathies to your family as they grieve your loss...

Mike's passing has come as such a shock to our family. He has been a friend for Almost 20 years, and is one of the most devoted activists and trade unionists I have ever known. We have lost a great brother, fellow Newfoundlander, New Democrat, caring human being who was committed to changing the world for the better. As President of Canada's NDP, on behalf of our Party, We deeply mourn his passing and send our condolences to his family and loved ones.

Mike's passing is a real heart breaker. Hardworking, principled, smart, kind  and fun. Did I mention hard working? Fun? Union leader, activist, organizer, international election observer, candidate... Mike was someone we could always count on. The movement has lost a true hero. Touched by Tommy brother, I will miss you.

We will miss mike, always enjoyed our visits and chats and annual Christmas Eve visit.  Thinking of the family.

All his life Mike has been a mover and shaker in support of social justice, a fierce defender of workers' rights and a larger-than-life presence within the NDP. 

As outgoing as he was outspoken, his passion, generosity and good spirits left their mark on NDP conventions and activists -- as recently as the ONDP convention just a few weeks ago.

On behalf of New Democrats from coast to coast to coast, Federal Council and all the staff at Federal Office -- many of whom see ourselves as members of Mike's extended family -- I offer our solace and solidarity to Mike's family and all his many friends.

Robert Fox, National Director, Canada's NDP

I had the privilege of working with Mike on several occasions and he was a true beacon of light for working people. The world is darker place without him in it. My sincere condolences to the family.

This is such a close knit family and we know they are all deeply hurting. Just know that all of us are thinking of you. My prayers go to you all.

Brother Seaward I had the privilege of walking with you proudly over the years of protests, demonstrations etc. You made a difference brother. You showed us all the importance of the issues in front of us. Then when we were done there was time for a beer and conversation. All of us were lucky to have your knowledge,friendship,beatles cds, and the welcoming smile and trading pins. Thank you Brother Seaward it has been a life changing experience. Pattie Tomaszewski

My deepest condolences to Mik's family, and to all his sisters and bothers in the labour movement who were so lucky to have known him.

Mike, you were a terrific activist and I loved talking with you at NDP events.  You were so real and down - to - earth.  I'll be thinking  of your family and wish them well.  I am very sad and will miss you.
Bobbi Stewart, Cambridge, Ontario

We are saddened to hear of the loss of our Brother and dear friend Mike.  Whenever we met up on picket lines, golf courses, or at conventions, Mike always had a smile and a story to tell.  Always standing up for his Brothers and Sisters in the "working class".  A true friend who will never be forgotten.

Although it's been a long time since we met, you have been a great inspiration to our son & his union work! Sorry we didn't get back to Toronto again to visit! It sounds like you had a great time with everyone in your life and lots of family support! You are very loved and will be greatly missed! God bless!

Sending condolences to all Mike's loved ones I did not know Mike but He sounds like an amazing Man.We need more like Him !

I've known Mike for nearly a decade. He was a great friend, always willing to take time to listen and offer himself. Mike took me under his wing (messed my hair a bit) and always showed love (except when it came to hockey). He will be dearly missed.

Mike we had our arguments and disagreements on things. But true friendship DID NOT hold any grudges! Thanks for taking special care of my Niece Hannah on her and my outing to Mary Spratt's Breakfast many years ago! Thanks for the Canary pin on one April 28th! Thank you for posing with me on another April 28th holding the sign KILL A WORKER GO TO JAIL.And thank for advising and helping get me the job at the OFL Building and being straight with me!
Doug K. Jones 
CUPE Local 79 retiree, NDP member, TYRLC Sargent At Arms, and FRIEND!.

A true brother to the labour movement. He would lend you a hand on your cause. Put you in your place if he felt you were wrong. Would sit down with you and share a drink. Always happy, always positive. I and the labour movement and the NDP will truly miss you.

We are so sorry to hear of the sudden passing of our brother and comrade Mike. He was always a tremendous supporter of the student movement, global justice movement, peace movement and of a certain young election organizer at labour council so many years ago. His convictions will live on in the many, many lives he touched.

My condolences to the Seaward Family at this sad time. Mike was and always will be in our minds - his countless stories, priceless advice & strong social values shall be treasured.
Rest in peace brother MIKE.
Allwyn Britto.

Brother Mike, you were one of a kind. Thoughtful, kind, helpful, energized, and a good listener. Never met anyone who didn't like you. You hold a special place in my heart that is now empty. They say that time erases the pain but it only coats it. You were full of stories and events that will forever stay with me. You will always be remembered. RIP dear friend.

Brother and comrade Mike is one of the people who will be remembered  long after he's gone. He devoted his life for social justice, workers rights and the betterment of our society. He was also an internationalist who spoke very strongly against War, imperialism and occupation.
Perhaps, I would imagine that  he would be continuing his passionate and political debate with another dear and  late brother Peter Leibovitch and some others as well.
Mike, we will miss your activism, high energetic drive and your amazing smile and jokes. 
Our sincere condolences to Mike's family and his Labour & struggle brothers, sisters and friends.
Rest in Peace brother.

Mike I will miss you always. The times we had. When I moved out West and answered my door and there you stood. What a party. When you gave the toast to the bride at my wedding I was so proud to have you with me. There are so many things I will miss about you. Until we meet again my friend. Much love, Judy xoxoxo

There was never any doubt about the stance Mike would take on any issue. You knew it would be for working people. You will be missed, my friend.

My sincere condolences to Mike's family. I was honoured to work with Mike for many years at the Labour Council, at demonstrations, picket lines and conventions. No-one could question his commitment to the movement and to working people throughout his life. He'll be missed by many in our movement. May he rest in peace.

Mike, RIP. You were a loyal and steadfast -- and outspoken! -- unionist and social democrat, a huge supporter of women's rights, and a lively presence at lots of Irish concerts! You were a generous soul who repaid any small favour twenty times over. You will be missed in the movement. Maureen Hynes.

Mike, sorry I never got back to the OFL building to say hi. You have done so much for the cause, rest now.

I knew Mike through labour and NDP activities.  He always had a ready smile and a friendly hug.  He was a brother with strong convictions who will be remembered, always.
Evelina Pan, Thunder Bay, ON

So terribly sad. Have been a friend and comrade of Mike's for at least 40 years  through the United Steelworkers, he was always fun to be with, committed and loyal. He left us way too soon and will be sadly missed. My sincere condolences to his family.
Doug Macpherson,(Burlington, On)

RIP, Brother. Who would know when we sat together at the ONDP Convention just a few weeks ago. Leanne and I send condolences to your family.

"Mike ,so sorry,you were always at every NDP and Steelworkers event. You will be sorely missed. " Gone"cannot believe we will not see you at Cecil St.
Harry & Margaret Hynd.

Mike literally wore his convictions. Buttons, t-shirts, stickers.  Like a true brother, you could quarrel with Mike without losing his friendship. He always knew which side he was on and his spirit was as youthful as it was generous. He was genuine and true. What a loss.

I have been a friend of Mike for some 30 years involved in the Labour Movement, Labour Council, in the NDP. I was shocked to hear of his passing. The last I saw and chatted with him was at the Charlie Angus Leadership launch. He was hale and hearty. 
Mike was a true friend, Brother, and Comrade. He was always ready to assist in whatever anyone wanted. The Labour Movement and the NDP sure will miss him. I will too.
May the Almighty give the Family and Friends all the blessings during this sad time. Mike will always be remembered.

Mike I could always count on you for your guidance.
You will be sorely missed on all your committees and councils.
My condolences to your family and friends.
RIP brother.
Barb Larson - Kenora ON

Mike will be sadly missed but fondly remembered.  No one is ever really "gone" until the last person on earth speaks of that person, so in Mike's case, he will live forever.  Mike, you were a true friend to each person and organization you touched.  I will miss your countless stories and your friendship.

Such a powerful warrior and joyful spirit,  Mike I will miss you and look forward to hoisting a beer with you in the great beyond. My sincere condolences to your family.

I am gutted by the loss of Mike.When I was struggling with work and I was at NDP event, he would pay for a drink or even a meal and tell me to pay it forward. It was something that made him truly special.

He was never fake and never too bashful to give his honest opinion. I loved that about him. I knew where I stood with him and will miss him terribly. 

I wish I was back in Ontario to say my proper good bye. I shall raise a glass for him here. I will miss you Mike.

Mike made a wonderful  contribution to the labour movement and to the NDP. We have lost a great trade unionist, an NDP stalwart, and a dear friend and comrade. He will be sadly missed. Sincere condolences to his family.

Ross McClellan

I remember Mike when I was a teenager in Aurora. Such a sweet guy & a great loss. My condolences to his family.

You always knew where you stood with Mike. I was honoured to be part of same social movement as Mike. We are all poorer due to his loss.

Mike was a dear friend and will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touced! Sincerest condolences to family and friends.

Henry Evans-Tenbrinke (Hamilton, ON.)

Mike was a dear friend and will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touced! Sincerest condolences to family and friends.

We are very sorry for your loss. Mike was a great guy and will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

Condolences to the family.I have been friends with Brother Michael for over 30 years.Worked with him as a member and table officer of Labour Council.We laughted debated,even argued from time to time.In the end we were always friends
We are both fellow Newfoundlanders.Mike born there and Irish,me  came there from Sweden as a child but both proud to come from the Rock.Will always miss you Bro.Where ever you are ,you will unionize,and fight for justice for all.,Sleep well, Elizabeth ( Byce,) Postal Worker retiree

Mary  Dorman  and the  Cole /Seaward family 
Very sorry for the loss of your brother ,brother in law .uncle
May the many wonderful memories you have of him bring you great comfort in the days ahead 
God bless

My condolences to Mike's family. Mike was charming, intelligent,street smart, feisty and just great fun to be around. I am deeply saddened that this wonderful man will no longer be with us.

Nancy Kelley (Newmarket, ON)

So saddened to learn we've lost Mike. He was at most NDP and Steelworker events I attended. He made many friends through his activism and loyalty. We'll not forget you, Mike.

We Big Bro you left us way to Young ,we don't know how we will go on without ,You took a part of all of us with .But knowing you are with mom and dad now I am sure they welcome you with open arms they havee there oldest with them now.So Big Bro carry on with what you do ,we will be ok knowing you are watching over us .Rest Easy you will always be loved and never never be forgotten..We all love you .xoxo Mary.

On behalf of the Northwestern Ontario Steelworkers Area Council Executive and members please accept our condolences on the passing of Mike. He was a great activist and inspired many. 
Herbert Daniher

I was so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I spoke to him at the ONDP convention a few weeks ago and, as always, he shared a few stories that brought a smile to my face. His dedication to working people, his union and the NDP will never be forgotten and will always be missed. My condolences to all his family and friends.

I met Mike 35 years ago when I started to work for Reynolds Extrusion in Richmond Hill, Ont. I saw Mike rally for the Unionized workers with great spirit and commitment. 
Mike enjoyed having a beer and passionate conversation with most. Always friendly and caring. 
My condolences go out to Mike's family during this very difficult time.

So very sorry for your loss. Mike and I go back a long way from our days on the Executive on the Toronto Area Council. He was always there with a laugh and a story. May he rest in peace.

Ingrid Sherwood, Toronto, Ontario.

Taken too soon.  So sorry for your loss.  He was a great guy.

Our sincere condolences to the Seaward family as they deal with the loss of Mike.  May your happy memories help you through this very difficult time.

Rick & Sue Preston

A good friend from the beginning.  Many memories in the late '60's that we shared with our group of friends at the time.  I'll always cherish those memories.  Mike, I know you worked tirelessly here for the betterment of workers.  I'm sure God has a job for you in Heaven.  You will be missed here.  Peace be with you brother.

We had the privilege of hosting a lobster supper on May 10th at our home in NS.   Mike was one of our guests and we had a wonderful evening of lobster,  beer and friendship.   Mike was so entertaining and he helped all of us to relax after several trying days.   We feel your loss and thank you for sharing him with everyone.  thanks for helping us and may your light always shine. Allen and Debbie Martin  Riverton, NS

Remembering MIke, a friend and warrior. Your partners at ACTRA send our thoughts to the family and to our extended family. David Sparrow, National President on behalf of our ACTRA members across Canada.

Saddened by his loss-In hope for his eternal rest-Mike was a fearless fighter for justice-I am better off for having known him-My prayers are for his repose and for his family and many friends-

Mike was a special friend to the Dunphy family in Aurora and was a special friend to my parents Ned & Edna. Heart of gold & a proud Newfoundlander.

Carol Dunphy

Joanne, Jim & Lisa, we are sorry to hear about your brother. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family at this time of need.

Mike was involved in so many efforts to build a strong global labour movement and a just and peaceful world. His quick wit, mischievous smile and tireless energy will be deeply missed, across many borders. But his star shines on to guide the way for others to keep on keepin' on...

RIP , Good bye my friend. My thoughts are with all the family .

I'm not sure if it was '88 or '89 that I started hanging out with Mike at NDP meetings, conventions and working on elections. All I can say is what a lovely human. Funny, brave and true. You, Seawards make good people.Love you Mike my condolences to all his near & dear.

Mike was a good guy, a fellow worker, a brother with whom one could have differences about the strategy and tactics of our Party and the labour movement without any personal rancour at all .... we knew each other on Facebook and in person for ten years, and although each of us thought the other deluded on one question or another we never ended up shouting at each other.
I last saw him at the ONDP Convention last month; he looked his usual self.
To his family and closer friends than I, happy memories of a life well lived, a struggle well fought, a lovely man gone too damned soon.

I met Mike back in 2007 at an NDP function he welcomed me and made me feel welcome, and then id see him all over at various functions and always left you with a smile. A remarkable man who will be missed by so many.

Mike was one-in-a-million. His steadfast commitment to the labour movement and the NDP were awe-inspiring. For more than 24 years, he always had a grin, a big hug, and a union pin for me. My deepest condolences to his family.

Was sad to hear of Michael's passing. Sending out prayers to all his family and friends.

Mike was a delightful guy, full of energy and warmth. I remember him best for his help to the War Resisters support Campaign. At one labour convention, he initiated a fundraising campaign among the delegates by the simple ploy of approaching them, demanding "twenty bucks", and telling them "don't worry about what it's for, just gimme twenty". He raised a few hundred bucks in a few minutes for our cause. Because everyone knew that if Mike was raising money for something, you didn't need to ask -- it was a good cause.

Condolences to Mike's family and to his sisters and brothers in the labour movement.

My heart goes out to Mike's family, when I got the call from Carolyn and she told me Mike died I didn't know what to say or do, I was in total shock.  Mike you are a true friend, a great Union man, a lifelong NDP'er and I know you stand for what's just.  Man I will miss you, still can't believe you are gone, always nice to have a beer with you and listen to some stories. RIP my brother.

My deepest condolences to the family and friends left behind at this time. Mike was a union warrior with many supporters and victories to claim. He will be missed by many

My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. I am deeply saddened you hear of Mikes passing I will keep my wonderful memories close to my heart. R I P Mike.

The neighbourhood will not be the same without Mikey! We have lots of good memories of him. Our sincere sympathy to all of you.

OBITUARY

Michael Edward Seaward

December 24, 1950 – May 20, 2017

Thompson Funeral Home

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