Michael Dominic Panzine

Michael Panzine 1945 - 2025

Michael, in his 79th year, passed away on March 6, 2025.  He will be deeply missed by Norma, his beloved wife of fifty years; sons, Joey and Mikey; grandchildren, Dante, Allessia, Valentina, Joseph Jr, Lucy and Aanya; and brother Donald and family.

Michael was a wonderful storyteller.  He had an amazing memory of things that happened in the "old neighbourhood" decades ago - funny stories mostly - that always made him laugh and kept his audience entertained.  His childhood friends from Clinton Street in Little Italy were loyal to him and remained a part of his life to the end.

He loved to play baseball as a kid and idolized his dad, Ralph, who was a huge fan of the game and a great role model for Michael who went on to coach the next generation, including his sons.  He made sure that everyone had a chance to play and, to guarantee that everyone made it to the games, he acted as chauffeur!

Michael had a wonderful way with youngsters.  When he and Norma ran their bakery cafe in Creemore, he was known as the "Brick Fairy".  After school each day, the kids would excitedly run to the alley beside the cafe to look for nickels and dimes hidden in the holes of the old brick wall!  The adults in Creemore loved Michael too and affectionately called him "The Greeter" as he welcomed everyone and was always ready to strike up a fun conversation.

Norma wants us to remember "a loving father and grandfather who was very involved in our lives, supporting us with amazing advice, thoughtful gifts and, most of all, just being there beside us.  We could not have been blessed with a more wonderful, generous and understanding man.  We were so fortunate to have Michael until his 79th year.  We miss you, and we love you so much."  Michael's grandkids echo those words and add: "It was an honour and a privilege to know you.  You will always be loved and remembered, Grandpa."

Donations in honour of Michael can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Toronto

Click here to donate to the Alzheimer Society

There will be a celebration of Life at the end of June.  Details to follow.