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Michael KEEFER Obituary

MICHAEL HOLLAND KEEFER September 11, 1948 -October 21, 2023 Born in Kirkland Lake to a mining-engineer father and a warbride-musician mother, Michael grew up in Toronto and was educated at the Royal Military College, Kingston, The University of Toronto and the University of Sussex, from which he received his DPhil in English literature. A magnificent scholar, devoted teacher, and canoe and cello enthusiast, he was a passionate advocate for social justice across the globe. He will be hugely missed by his wife Janice, his sons Tom and Chris, their partners Nica and Mimi, Liam's mom Allison, and his grandchildren Anouk, Liam and Misha, who rejoiced in his Bobbin stories and have been boon companions of Michael's inimitable 'Hand Mouse'. Tom's stepsons Moon and Phoenix, Kohel and Tevye held a special place in Michael's heart. Our thanks to Doctors Yvonne Haas and Rachel Wortzman for their compassionate care of Michael during his complicated illness; to Nancy Halupa RN for her invaluable night vigil, and to all the family and friends who heartened Michael with their loving visits, calls and messages. Donations may be made in Michael's name to the invaluable Dorothy Ley hospice: www.dlhospice.org.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Oct. 21 to Oct. 25, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael KEEFER

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16 Entries

David Barry

March 19, 2024

I just read Dr. Keefer's devastatingly lucid essay "Knowing and Not Knowing" in the collection Advocating for Palestine in Canada. It was my introduction to his writing and thought, and I was compelled to learn more about him and his works. Sadly, one of the first things that appeared in my online search was this obituary. My deepest condolences to Dr. Keefer's family and friends. May it bring you some measure of solace knowing that though he has shuffled off this mortal coil, Dr. Keefer's words and writings no doubt continue to educate and inspire others.

Valerie Ashford

January 27, 2024

A former prof. of mine and a longtime friend since, Michael changed my life, in part by introducing me to Janice and in part by always being one to get well into the thick of it, whether politics, history, philosophy, or a mouse. I miss conversations with Michael so, so much.

Morgan Dennis

November 5, 2023

I attended the University of Guelph in the 90s and took many classes with Michael and worked with him on several research projects. I got to know both Keefers during this time (a formative one in my own life) and have many warm memories of them and their idyllic country home in Eden Mills. Michael was a kind, lovely man-a true gentleman.

Elaine Chang

October 29, 2023

Michael and I are heartbroken by this news, and we send Janice, Tom, Chris, and the entire Keefer family our very deepest condolences. The experience of sharing the commute back to Toronto with him, the awe-inspiring breadth and rigour of his intellect, and his always principled and humane engagement with political and cultural currents--and always well seasoned with his characteristic wit and charm--will stay with me forever. Michael, you are and will be so very missed.

Paul and Sue McArthur

October 29, 2023

Heartfelt condolences. A giant in many ways with a giant heart and an eloquent and brave voice for truth and justice. He had a wonderful sense of humour and was a great story teller with a rich vocabulary, many friends and a very loving family. Thankful for the opportunity to spend some time with Michael and his family, cherished memories.

T. Sher Singh

October 26, 2023

Dear Janice, Tom and Chris: Lots of love to you and all your loved ones, as we all celebrate Michael's extraordinarily rich and beautiful life. From his "twin brother", Sher

caius keefer

October 25, 2023

he was a good man hes is also my great uncle he died cause of prostate cancer
and spread to his brain :(

Oliver Irwin

October 23, 2023

Condolences to the family of Michael -- a kindly gentleman, scholar, humanitarian
and devoted grandpa.

Judith Thompson

October 23, 2023

What a devastating loss to all. Michael was a powerful and passionate thinker and speaker and a kind and thoughtful colleague and friend. I will always cherish our interactions, and will never forget his sweet good humour, and his gentle but resonant voice.

Karin Brothers

October 22, 2023

Michael was a magnificent human being whose kindness, compassion and brilliance will be sorely missed by everyone whose life he touched. The world is a smaller, darker place without him.

Single Memorial Tree

Jane, Ron, and Maddy Young

Planted Trees

Janet Feasby

October 21, 2023

Dear Janice, Chris, and Tom.

So sorry to hear of Michael's passing. Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences.

Janet (Karpus) Feasby and Paul Feasby

Cliff Squires

October 21, 2023

Condolences to all who knew him. Mike stood tall in every way.

Peg Best

October 21, 2023

To the dear man who shared a "naughty" limerick at our wedding...Janice, Chris and Tom our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love Peg (Duane) Best

Patrick Tighe

October 21, 2023

MIchael was a brilliant scholar and a passionate and articulate supporter for justice. I will miss our debates and discussions on a wide range of subjects. He was a truly caring man.

Ray Riddell

October 21, 2023

What a wonderful man and true friend who had the courage to speak on issues of concern to all of us.

Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results

Memorial Events
for Michael KEEFER

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