Obituary of Michael John Gelinas

April 23, 1940 - Brighton, England

June 15, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Michael (Mike) Gelinas, beloved husband of Irmina Gelinas, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at the age of 84 years.

Mike is the loving father to Mike, Barney, and Irene, and stepdad to Marek Salnik, of Poland. He also leaves behind his little furry friend Blackie; his cat who always comforted him and gave him so much love.

He worked at Burns Foods in Calgary until their closure in 1984, and then another three years later dismantling the plant with a contractor.

One of Mike’s hobbies included working in the backyard with Irmina. Crib was his pastime, always squeezing in a game or two (okay, maybe three).

“You have to be lucky to be good and good to be lucky”

He will be most remembered for his love of all animals, his kindness and generosity, as well as his genuine smile. Mike was a down-to-earth and humble man.

He will be greatly missed.

A Private Celebration of Mike’s Life will be held in August 2024.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Calgary Humane Society, 4455 – 110^th Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2C 2T7, Telephone: (403)205-4455, www.calgaryhumane.ca, or to The Meow Foundation, Box 65024 RPO North Hill, Calgary, AB T2N 4T6, Telephone: 403-230-6033, www.meowfoundation.com.    

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Mike’s family here.

In living memory of Michael Gelinas, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-276-2296.