Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Pat; his three daughters: Chiyoko (Andrew), Crystal (Brent), and Michelle (Paul); stepchildren: Riley, Paul, and Jenelle; and grandchildren: Arora, Mia, Noa and Kobe. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Clayton (Colleen), Dean (Sandy), Anita (Rheal), David, Mary Debra, Dan (Delphine), Ray and Laura (Dave), as well as numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

He was predeceased by his parents Clayton and Yvonne Kensley.

Mike was born in Sarnia, Ontario on September 28th, 1959, the fourth born of nine children. As a child, “little Mikey” excelled at sports and was the athletic one in the family, he particularly loved playing soccer. As an adult, he moved out to the west coast with an adventurous spirit, finding employment at Vancouver General Hospital. After many years, he relocated to Lethbridge, Alberta, where he found his passion working as an Educational Assistant in the schools, where his “larger than life” personality could be seen in every interaction.

In 2007, Mike married Pat and together they enjoyed many years of travelling and exploring the world. Among some of their greatest adventures was the Great Wall of China, whale watching in Alaska, and swimming with the turtles in Hawaii. You could always find them sharing a laugh with good friends at local coffee shops, where Mike would always be the jokester in the crowd. They became avid campers, a love that they shared with their grandchildren. Mike had a love for muscle cars, shooting pool and listening to rock music.

Mike’s love for Pat, his children, and grandchildren was the highlight of his life. Known for his kind spirit and gentle heart, he found great pride and fulfillment in his family. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, spending time at family BBQs and exploring nature with his grandchildren.

Mike always went the extra mile to stay in contact and show his love to his family and friends. Even as his health started to decline, you could always count on receiving multiple calls from him to brighten your day. He had a one-of-a-kind sense of humour and ability to bring a smile to everyone’s face. His resilient spirit shone brightly through every challenge, leaving an indelible mark of strength, love, and grace on all who knew him. Mike’s famous saying was “Beep Squack Boogity Boo. What’s up with you?” His impersonations of Michael Jackson’s dance moves became a signature move of his and you could depend on him to keep the party going.

A true lover of life, Mike had a remarkable gift for bringing people together, often filling any room with warmth, laughter, and a good story. His playful banter and infectious laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, the lessons he imparted- resilience in adversity and the power of laughter to lift the soul- will continue to guide and inspire us every day. Mike’s memory will live on in every joke, every smile, and every courageous step we take forward. Like a free bird, Dad, you’ve spread your wings and are no longer bound by struggle. You’re soaring in peace now, and though we’ll miss you, we find comfort knowing you’re finally free.

We would like to extend a special thank you to his wife, Pat, for her unwavering selfless love that she has shown our Father.

A Celebration of Mike’s life will be held at WESTMINSTER COMMUNITY HALL, 411 – 16 Street North, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.