Obituary of Michael Minailo

May 9, 1930 – Smoky Lake, Alberta

November 13, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta

Michael (Mike) Minailo, beloved husband of Marie Minailo, his best friend and loving wife of sixty-seven years (pre-deceased in February of this year) of Calgary, AB, passed away on Saturday, November 13, 2021, at the age of 91 years.

Mike, who was born on May 9, 1930, in Smoky Lake, AB, was raised on the farm with his eight siblings and maintained close connections with each of them until their own passing. Upon completing school, he was employed in transportation with CP Airlines and CP Railway in Dawson Creek, and other remote locations for six years. After completing additional night-schooling, Mike transitioned to the Petroleum Industry, first in Edmonton and then Calgary, which ultimately became his long-term home as an Accounting and Special Projects Manager for 34 years with ultimately “one” company, having survived five mergers, during which he always continued to excel. Starting with Sinclair Oil, to Skelly, to Getty Oil, to Texaco and then Imperial Oil, retiring in 1991. A consummate professional, he was always kind to everyone and reached out to all. A loving but strict parent, he was really a teddy bear to all. He always bent over backwards to help make his children’s aspirations and dreams come true.

Mike married his bride, Marie, in 1953 and had a beautiful hard-worked and well-earned special life. He was able to share the world with Marie, travelling the world throughout the USA and Europe and taking cruises to special places, including crossing the Panama Canal. Mike and Marie spent pre and post retirement in Sun Valley, ID, Palm Springs, San Diego and Laguna Beach sharing time with his children and grandchildren. A consummate curler at the Big 4 Curling Center and golfer, he enjoyed the best of Alberta courses. Though he probably seldom broke 85, he played some of the most scenic and challenging courses around the US and Canada. He was recognized for his service and dedication to the Senior Men’s Interclub Leagues in both Calgary (Shawnee Slopes) and Palm Springs (Palm Springs Country Club).

After retirement, Mike became somewhat of a senior jock, hiking the Coachella Mountains around Palm Springs and biking long circuits around the wonderful bike paths in Calgary from Fish Creek around to Weaselhead Flats. He always continued to play golf until his swing gave out.

Mike is survived by his daughter Michele, (Sun Valley, ID), son Michael (Dallas, TX), grandchildren Mia Jefferson, Alberta Hill, Makena Minailo and Kaia Minailo; and many nieces and nephews. “Dad” was a GREAT father and grandfather. He always gave of himself to his family. He leaves a legacy of example to his kids and grandkids. He is also survived by his sister Eunice Orason, who he remained close with until his passing. The bottom line is that Mike Minailo had a great life, made an impact on others that he touched and will be sorely missed by all.

Mike was predeceased by his five sisters, Kate Olynik, Anne Andruchow, Mary Nottingham, Katherine Rechelt and Pearl Oshann; and two brothers, Bill and Nick Minailo.

From Michele and Michael and your granddaughters, we love you and will miss you very much. Give Mom a hug from us.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Michael Minailo, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.