Michael Torsney
Age - 93
December 7, 2023
There is more laughter in heaven today, as our dear father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend brings his wonderful sense of humor to the sweet hereafter.
Born in Dublin, Ireland on 23 April 1930, Michael died on 30 November 2023, surrounded by the love of his family. He is reunited with his beloved wife of nearly 68 years, Marie Torsney (nee O'Gorman), who died on 24 July. Michael was the loving father of Michelle Torsney (Steve Barrett), Brian (d. 2017) (Sheila Forani), Patricia "Paddy", and Sean (Susie); proud grandfather of Amy (Aaron), Kathleen (Matt) and Erin Torsney, Meaghan (David) and Catherine Barrett; great-grandfather of Malcolm, Rhys, Madelyn, Alaric and Tessa.
A graduate of Blackrock College, Dublin, Michael earned his Architecture degree in 1955 at what is now Trinity College Dublin. Newly married to his sweetheart of five years, they moved to London, England, where he completed his internship and became a member of the Royal Society of Architects of Ireland. In 1957, Marie, Michael and Michelle came to Hamilton under a government travel loan program.
Gaining Canadian professional work experience was initially a challenge, as it is for many immigrants. William R. Souter hired Michael, enabling him to earn his Canadian professional designation in 1959 and become a member of the Ontario Association of Architects, as well as the Royal Institute of Architects of Canada. Michael opened his own architectural firm in 1962. Designing pools and sports complexes brought Michael great joy, as did diverse projects such as the Dundas Public Library, the first St. Joseph's Villa, the Unified Family Court, Ronald McDonald House, the East End Hamilton Police Station, numerous places of worship and schools in Halton and Hamilton, buildings at Mohawk College, and many renovations to our family homes. Over the years, his firm employed numerous people, including talented newcomers to Canada; however, his core team remained with him for more than 30 years, including through economic downturns. Michael served on the board of the Ontario Association of Architects and in 1992 was inducted as a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Architects of Canada.
Michael's education included basic construction skills training, which was helpful as an architect and at home. From their first tiny Aldershot home in 1959, our childhood memories include the sound of circular saws and the smell of freshly cut wood. In 1968, we moved to a home Dad designed overlooking Burlington Bay, the perfect spot for wonderful memories with family and friends.
Michael was an accomplished athlete, playing rugby with the Hamilton Hornets, water polo with the Hamilton Water Polo Club, curling (BGCC) and sailing (RHYC). At age 49, he helped found the Burlington Masters Swimming Club. In retirement, he pursued his passion for international competition, with the Burlington Masters and as a member of the St. Petersburg, Florida Masters. He won medals in seven of eight International Swimming Federation World Masters Games, setting many Canadian records and earning Top 10 All-American honors. He remained an elite swimmer well into his 80s, specializing in the IM and butterfly. As a leader at the Canadian Water Polo Association, he brought top young Canadian players to the Netherlands (1969) and to Eastern Bloc countries (1970, 1971), to prepare Canada's first entry to the Olympics in 1972. Mom and Dad hosted teams from Quebec and, most memorably, the Cuban national team. In 2015, Michael was inducted into the Burlington Sports Hall of Fame for his excellence in sport and as a community builder.
Together our parents exemplified community service and a fierce commitment to Canada, contributing to make Hamilton and Burlington great places to live and work. Michael joined the boards of the Hamilton Social Planning Council, Opera Hamilton, St. Joseph's Hospital, the Hamilton Automobile Club (Chair 1991-1993), and the executives of provincial and federal Liberal associations. He was a member of the Rotary Club of Hamilton (President 1992-93) and the Hamilton Club (Chair 1997). Believing in equality, he welcomed women members into both clubs.
Bitten early by the travel bug, Michael won a coveted scholarship to study art in Rome, hitchhiked across Europe and, in later years with Marie, travelled to international swimming competitions in New Zealand, Japan, Scandinavia and beyond. Our parents took many cruises in their retirement, far easier trips than their early years with four kids piled in a car hauling a tent trailer, driving to Florida or to Algonquin Park during blackfly season. With friends, Michael sailed from Tobermory to Hamilton, and later in the BVIs.
Dad was always there for his family. He was extremely proud and supportive of all our endeavors, in sports, business, politics and life. He adored his granddaughters and great-grandchildren. He shared his keen interest in history and politics, and encouraged all of us to develop a better understanding of and perspective about the world. He was a steadfast and loyal friend. His quick wit and kind heart will be greatly missed!
Michael was a man of great faith, knowing he would be reunited with Mom, and our brother, Brian. Our family is deeply grateful to Dr. Ryan Cross, Dr. Randy Cross, and the incredible team at Amica Dundas for Dad's exceptional care. We also thank the caring staff at the Hamilton General Hospital.
Visitation on Friday, 8 December, from 3 to 5 pm and 7 to 9 pm at Smith's Funeral Home, 485 Brant Street, Burlington. Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 9 December at 10:30 am at Holy Rosary Church, Burlington. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to De Mazenod Door Outreach or the Canadian Landmine Foundation.
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