Blue Banner-V17-Fall/Winter 2014

a n b n e er u l b H A E L ’ S C O L L E GE S C H O O L S T. M I C

Order of St. Michael 2015 Inductees: Volume 17 ~ Fall/Winter 2014

10 Inaugural Basil Bowl 13 Men of St. Michael’s: James Durbano

18 Mauko ’90 Keeps Running

Nick Di Donato ’76 Hugh McDougall Dan Prendergast Fr. Cecil Zinger, CSB p. 16

a n b n e er u l b

letters to the editor

H A E L ’ S C OL L E GE S C HO OL S T. M I C

The St. Michael’s College School alumni magazine, Blue Banner, is published two times per year. It reflects the history, accomplishments and stories of graduates and its purpose is to promote collegiality, respect and Christian values under the direction of the Basilian Fathers.

PRESIDENT: Fr. Jeff Thompson, CSB ’79 EDITOR: Gavin Davidson ’93 CO-EDITOR: Michael De Pellegrin ’94

CONTACT DIRECTORY

CONTRIBUTORS

Basilian Fathers: www.basilian.org

Kimberley Bailey, Steve Pozgaj ’71, Brandon Sousa ’07,

CISAA (Varsity Athletic Schedule): www.cisaa.ca

Jillian Kaster, Pat Mancuso ’90, Harold Moffat ’52,

Twitter: www.twitter.com/smcs1852

Marc Montemurro ’93, Joe Younder ’56,

Advancement Office: advancement@smcsmail.com

Stephanie Nicholls, Fr. Jeff Thompson, CSB ’79.

Alumni Affairs: alumni@smcsmail.com

Message from the President

4

Alumni Association Message

6

Editor’s Message

7

Letters to the Editor

8

Basilian High Schools Engage in Turf Wars at the Inaugural Basil Bowl

10

Chris De Piero ’87 Appointed Director of Athletics

11

Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop: Joe Mauko ’90 Keeps Running

Blue Banner Feedback: bluebanner@smcsmail.com Communications Office: md@smcsmail.com Tel: 416-653-3180 ext. 292 Fax: 416-653-8789 E-mail: info@smcsmail.com • Admissions (ext. 195) • Advancement (ext. 118) • Alumni Affairs (ext. 273) • Archives (ext. 457)

12

Men of St. Michael’s: James Durbano (1945-47) 13 Order of St. Michael

Blue Banner Online: www.mybluebanner.com

Archives Office: archives@smcsmail.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Securing our Future by Giving Back: Romeo Milano ’80

St. Michael’s College School: www.stmichaelscollegeschool.com

16

• Arena (ext. 422) • Communications (ext. 292) • Finance (ext. 239) • Main Reception (ext. 0)

18

• Mporium – school store (ext. 431) • Property Manager (ext. 129)

Where Are They Now, Teacher Edition: Marty Story

20

• President – Fr. Jeff Thompson, CSB ’79 (ext. 174)

Where Are They Now

21

• Principal – Dr. Sheridan ’89 (ext. 139)

In Memoriam

24

• Vice Principal – Mr. John ’87 (ext. 156)

The Way We Were: A Hockey Story

30

• Vice Principal – Mr. Lee ’94 (ext. 179) Canada Publications Mail Agreement #40006997 Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

message from the president Dear St. Michael's Alumni and Friends,

and athletic excellence. The Basilian Fathers, the faculty, and the staff at St. Michael's, proudly inherit-

It is my distinct honour and great pleasure to address

ing and lovingly nurturing this precious tradition, have

this introductory message to you in the Blue Banner

never hesitated to entrust it to our remarkable

for the first time. The confidence placed in me by the

students year after year; much like our Grade 12

Basilian Fathers and the St. Michael's family to serve

students who, in another magnificent and moving

as President of St. Michael's College School is

new tradition at Thanksgiving, ceremonially place

profoundly humbling, even as it is exciting. I promise

school blazers onto the shoulders of our Grade 7 and

to match your trust with my own efforts to ensure the

new Grade 8 students. It does us all good to know

continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved

that our old high school has never stopped moulding

school.

and shaping new generations of young gentlemen in goodness, discipline, and knowledge from the very

In my Grade 9 days of 1974, I was just a quiet boy who

day they enter their new high school.

frequently sat on the ancient indented concrete step beside the Students' Entrance arch, while waiting for

Having taught at St. Mike's from 2002 through 2005, I

the Bathurst Street bus to take me home. I remember

am very well acquainted with some of our relatively

my shoulders sagging under the weight of too many

recent alumni. In some instances, perhaps I know

heavy textbooks, I remember dreading the long hours

them only too well. I look forward to meeting and

of homework that sprawled before me, but I do not

getting to know many more distinguished and vener-

remember imagining that I would grow to know and love the aesthetic and noble qualities of yellow bricks.

Fr. Foy, CSB wax eloquent about what they loved so

That epiphany would have to wait until after my own

much. It was surely happening for real, though I did

Grand Tour of Europe in 1984. I was more immediately

not know it at the time, which is why I now speak

concerned with having to learn how to figure out the

about it confidently.

area of a rhombus for tomorrow and, oh yes, also

able alumni from yesteryear. Our shared memories and connections through the decades are some of the crowning achievements of a St. Michael's education.

Cotangents of angles and pluperfect subjunctive passives may come and go, but what continues to stand the test of time is our enduring bond of brother-

remembering to memorize the Nicene Creed for

Just as confidently as our graduates today, infusing

Fr. Zinger, CSB’s oral test on Friday. How could I have

their red blood with double blue, march in ceremonial

suspected that I would come to count my brief visits to

procession from the graduation stage, through the

the school chapel (mostly on test days) and my grow-

Students' Entrance arch (under which, in a splendid

ing admiration for the three men who taught me Theol-

new tradition, they have not dared to pass until this

ogy, Mathematics, and English within these yellow

day), and onto the world's stage that is always thirst-

ministering in the Basilian world for many years,

bricks as but two of the many channels through which

ing for their presence, their personality, and their

coming home to St. Mike’s now is like waking up after

the voice of God was whispering to me, even as the

performance. In our own day, we alumni drew from

a long, adventurous, and exciting dream, and happily

finger of God was tracing the outlines of my Basilian

this same deep well which continues to this day to

finding myself in the place where I first began, a place

story? That story was already being told, even if I was

keep alive and active the rich history and tradition of

of affirmation and exhilaration, a place of welcome

not reading it attentively in those days, while I listened,

Catholic education at St. Mike's in its vibrant and

and warmth, a place of comfort and peace, a place

mesmerized, to Fr. Zinger, Fr. Holmes, CSB, and

beautiful synthesis of spiritual, moral, academic, artistic,

that is always home.

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

The Basilian Fathers of St. Michael’s: (L-R) Fr. Bill May, CSB, Fr. John Malo, CSB ’66, Fr. John Reddy, CSB, Fr. Cecil Zinger, CSB, Fr. Jefferson Thompson, CSB ’79, Fr. Andrew Leung, CSB.

I invite all of you, dear alumni and friends, to come home to St. Michael’s for a visit. Come back to the place where you first began and know it all over again, as if for the first time. We would be overjoyed to welcome you home.

hood that fashions us into the Body of Christ.

And let us not forget to soar always on the wings of Allow me to add this final reflection on what these

St. Michael, for they will lift us high and carry us far.

early days signify for this 1979 SMCS graduate. After St. Michael, pray for us.

Sincerely in Christ,

Fr. Jefferson Mark Thompson, CSB ’79

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

alumni association message

editor’s message

One of the pleasures of

has not changed. It is a profound experience to return

I know a thing or two

on campus. I invite you to experience the excitement

working with the Alumni

home to a place that has deep rooted ties to many of the

about the joy one feels

Fr. Thompson, CSB ’79 enjoyed upon his return to the

Association is that you

formative years of your life.

upon returning home. It

place that helped make him both a man, and a man of

was a feeling I first

God.

witness many “HomeWe witness

I very often hear from alumni about the lasting impres-

experienced

the alumnus who gradu-

sion St. Michael’s College School has had on their time

even realizing where or

I invite you to return to establish, or re-establish,

ated 25 or 50 years ago

as a student and life since graduating. Thus makes the

what home was. It was

connections with Men Of St. Michael’s: men of charac-

and is returning back to

homecoming a special experience.

the feeling of joy that

ter and action, such as James Durbano (1945-47), who

overcame me when I

is featured in this issue’s installment of our popular

One special return home I would like to specifically

returned to the U.K.

series; men of unmatched dedication to the school,

equally

acknowledge is the return of Fr. Jeff Thompson, CSB

every

a

such as this year’s inductees to the Order of

profound experience is

’79. As an alumni association it is perfect situation to

child,

though,

St. Michael, Nick Di Donato ’76, Hugh McDougall, Dan

the alumnus who recently graduated and is returning

work with a President who immediately has a deep

having originally departed Liverpool before I was a

Prendergast, Fr. Cecil Zinger, CSB; men of kindness

to the school for the first since his days as a student

understanding of the School and the special bond that

year old, I had no comprehension or understanding of

and caring, such as Romeo Milano ’80, the subject of

and is now seeing the school for the first time through

we share as an Alumni Association. Welcome home

that place as home. But it was in my blood.

this edition of ‘Securing Our Future by Giving Back’;

a

Fr. Jeff Thompson, the Alumni Association is proud to

comings”.

the school for the first time.

A

different,

different

perspective.

Every

completely but

alumnus

being

re-introduced to St. Mike’s shares the same experi-

have you back!

summer even

without

as

men of talent and artistic vision such as Marty Story, As pretty much a lifelong Torontonian, I have reveled in

who is the current focus of ‘Where Are They Now:

the joy of reacquainting myself with this city each time

Teacher Edition’; men of athleticism and leadership,

On a personal note, my personal perspective towards

I have returned from extended sojourns, be it those of

such

the school has now changed as I am now the proud

an educational nature

(Halifax, Finland, England),

De Piero ’87; men of sacrifice and drive like Joe Mauko

Whether you are returning to the school for the first

father to Thomas Rafael Montemurro, ’32! I now have

those related to work (Asia, Europe), or those merely

’90, who has run hundreds of kilometers in support of

time since graduating, or return annually to one of the

even more vested interest in the school that I hope my

designed to escape Canadian winters (Asia again, and

the Terry Fox Foundation; men of achievement and

many alumni functions, every reacquaintance with SMC

son will one day attend.

of course, Florida) - because Toronto is in my blood.

honour like William James McDonagh ’48 and Charles

ence, they are returning to a place that for many years felt like ‘home’ to them.

provides a different perspective. An alumnus retuning in

as

new

Director

of

Athletics,

Chris

Patrick ‘Pat’ Wilson ’36, or any of the other alumni

the fall after his spring graduation shares a vastly differ-

As always, I encourage all alumni to return, and

But even after all the places I have visited and all that I

featured in the current installments of ‘Where Are They

ent experience to the alumnus returning after years

support, the school that we are all proud to be a part of.

have experienced, the overriding force coursing through

Now’ and ‘In Memoriam’.

away. The returning alumnus who is back at the school for the first time after his son has started as a student

my veins is that of St. Michael’s. After graduating in I look forward to witnessing your very own ‘Homecoming’.

1993, I was separated from the school for a long period

If you are reading this magazine, but remain discon-

– first gallivanting around the world and then focused on

nected from the school, I invite you to return and reac-

building a career and family. It was only when I returned

quaint yourself with the double-blue blood that

school campus have changed over the years and there

from my last trip to Asia and was fortunate enough to be

courses through your veins.

has most likely been a large turnover in teachers and

selected as the editor of this venerable publication that

relives his own experiences though the excited wide eyes of his son (or grandson!). Some aspects of the

Sincerely,

staff, but what is at the heart of the school, is not imme-

Marc Montemurro ’93

diately visible through the ever-present yellow bricks,

Alumni Association President

I realized it – St. Michael’s is in my blood.

Come home, as have so many before you, and discover the magic that awaits.

If St. Michael’s is also in your blood, I invite you to

PAST PRESIDENTS

Josh Colle ’92, Romeo Milano ’80, Peter Thurton ’81, Denis Caponi Jr. ’86, Rob Grossi ’72, Paul Grossi ’69, Daniel Brennan ’70, John McCusker ’57, William Metzler ’65, John Bonvivere ’50 †, Michael Duffy ’65, Ross Robertson ’64, William Rosenitsch ’57, Paul Thomson ’65, John G. Walsh ’58 †, Frank Thickett ’57, W. Frank Morneau ’59, Frank Glionna ’53 †, George Cormack ’49, Richard Wakely ’64 †, Gordon Ashworth ’45 †, Peter D’Agostino ’42 †, G.J. McGoey ’58 †, Paul McNamara ’40 †, Joseph Primeau ’28 †, Dick Foster ’30†.

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

experience once again the joy I feel every time I walk down the yellow brick halls for an editorial meeting, career day, an alumni executive meeting, or to partici-

Gavin Davidson ’93

pate in any number of worthy causes always in progress

Editor

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

letters to the editor Dear Editor,

Dear Editor,

Dear Editor,

I was recently forwarded a copy of the Blue Banner

We have not met, but I commend you and the rest of

Thanks very much for the acknowledgement of our

magazine sent to a mailing address that I last inhabited

the staff for the great job of past publications. I know

brother Michael's death in the latest issue of the Blue

back in 1982. I guess that it’s time (my apologies for

some of the ‘old timers’ including Joe Younder ’56,

Banner. However, the picture did not correspond to

the cheekiness) to update my mailing address in your

Dan Prendergast, and Jack Fenn ’54 as well as my

Michael. I just wanted to bring it to your attention.

database.

good friend Mike Lavelle ’55. I was a student at St.

Thank you,

Mike's for only one year (1955-56), but achieved the

Thanks again,

Angelo Castellan ’74

acquaintance of some exceptional people, including

Jack Dockeray ’53

teachers, at the time. I am very pleased to share a Ed’s Reply: Better late than never, Angelo! Thanks for

the update. Cheekiness is always appreciated at the

milestone in my life with my past colleagues.

Lou Pennachetti (1955-56)

Blue Banner.

Ed’s Reply: Jack, please accept my most sincere

apologies for the error. I’m glad we have been able to belatedly remedy the situation by including a picture of

Ed’s Reply: Many thanks for your kind words, Lou, and

your brother, Michael, below.

for providing news of your recent milestone, which we Dear Pat Mancuso ’90, Happy Canada Day! This response is long overdue. I

have included in this issue’s ‘Where Are They Now’ section.

hope you check your SMCS email from time to time!

You did a superb job in painting a picture of this old fart! In fact, the whole edition of the Blue Banner is terrific, as usual. Please pass on my compliments to Gavin. Anita says I need multiple copies of this edition to pass on to family and friends. Let me know how to go about that.

Thanks again! Have a great summer with your family.

Paul Dignan ’59 Ed Reply: It’s no less than you deserved, Mr. Dignan.

You have been a fabulous servant to the St. Mike’s

community. Please give my best to Cara and the rest of the family.

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

basilian high schools engage in turf wars at the inaugural basil bowl Brandon Sousa ’07 It was a battle of the Basilian high schools. United by their faith in God and the game, St. Michael’s College School, Detroit Catholic Central High School, and Houston’s St. Thomas High School squared off in the inaugural Basil Bowl exhibition series. It was the first time these three varsity football teams have competed against each other.

On Friday, September 12, the Kerry Blues travelled to Detroit to tackle Fr. Thompson, CSB ’79’s former school, Detroit Catholic Central inside Shamrock Stadium. After serving as that school’s president for two years, Fr. Thompson moved to Toronto in July to begin his appointment as President of St. Mike’s. Although the Shamrocks were victorious, the real success was the start of a tradition to strengthen the brotherhood between the three Basilian-run high schools.

The two schools also met on the soccer pitch, in a game that ended in a 1-1 draw. There are also plans for the Majors and Shamrocks to meet on the ice this upcoming season.

The second and final game was held on the Eugene Melnyk Sports Field on October 11 against Houston’s St. Thomas Eagles. After a tough fought match, St. Thomas came away with the win in an entertaining and spirited affair.

histories in all-boys Catholic education, and a tradition of profound commitment to our diverse student populations.

The Basil Bowl is one instrument by which we intend to deepen and strengthen these bonds,” remarked Fr. Thompson.

As an ancillary benefit, the series also served to raise awareness of HEAL4Life, a non-profit organization focused on making young men’s health a priority through empowering, encouraging, and inspiring discussion and action surrounding men’s health. Their awareness campaign is aimed at breaking down the ‘tough guy’ barrier, enabling young men to talk about what’s going on with their mind and body.

Without question, the connective power of both sport and philanthropy was the result of bringing these varsity football teams together and all involved are already looking forward to next year’s edition.

There was more to this game than bragging rights amongst the Basilian Fathers. It was planned as an opportunity to create an international brotherhood connecting people across borders. Football at all three Basilian schools has fostered strong bonds amongst the players, the students, and the school community over the decades. This was an opportunity to link the common passion amongst all three schools.

“We all share very much in common: the Basilian motto, the same vision and mission, strong bonds of brotherhood and community, equally proud and venerable

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

(L-R) Fr. Jefferson Thompson, CSB, Constable Peter Fulton, Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB, Fr. Patrick Fulton, CSB.

chris de piero ’87 appointed director of athletics This past June, Chris De Piero began his appointment as Director of Athletics at St. Michael’s College School, bringing with him a wealth of experience. De Piero, a St. Michael’s alumnus, coach and teacher, has coached national teams, worked in the OHL and is currently serving as an amateur scout for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

De Piero first stepped onto the ice in the St. Michael’s arena at the young age of 10, when he played AAA hockey. He then continued his hockey career as a member of the Junior and Senior varsity teams here at St. Michael’s. In 1986, as captain of the Senior Double Blues, De Piero led the team to OFSAA silver and was voted Most Valuable Player. His winning ways continued during his first year of coaching the renewed Varsity Majors in 2013.

After graduating from St. Michael’s, De Piero attended the University of Toronto, graduating with a Bachelor of Physical Health and Education in 1992. He returned to the U of T as the assistant coach of the hockey team from 1993-97.

Through his experience coaching at various hockey schools during this time, De Piero came to realize that he wanted to teach formally. In 1997 he graduated from Teacher’s College and in 1998 began his first teaching job at St. Augustine of Canterbury, in North York. In 1999, De Piero jumped at the opportunity to return to St. Michael’s to teach Grade 7 Core Intermediate and Physical Education and to coach the St. Michael’s Buzzers Jr. A Hockey Club. He was the recipient of the OPJHL’s Coach of Year award in 2002 and 2005. However, in 2006, De Piero left to join the Oshawa Generals as the Associate Coach and Assistant General Manager and was promoted to Head Coach and General Manager in 2008. “I wanted to challenge myself from a coaching perspective at the next level. It

was a decision that made sense at the time,” says De Piero of leaving St. Mike’s.

Wherever De Piero went, coaching success and the St. Michael’s connection followed. In 2009, he travelled to the Czech Republic for the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament as the Assistant Coach of the U18 team. After being crowned tournament champions, he recalls team member and former SMCS student Tyler Seguin ’10 finding him to say, “this was for St. Mike’s”.

In 2013, De Piero returned home to St. Michael’s, where he looked forward to the challenge of reviving the school’s varsity hockey programme and helping the team join the Mid-West Prep Hockey League. As Director of Athletics he plans to build on the legacy of his predecessors, Paul Forbes and Enzo Vitullo, by creating a high-level varsity athletic programme, while enabling all students to participate in a number of activities. “I want to put the ‘M’ on as many students as possible and create opportunities and growth through athletics.”

De Piero, who currently lives in King City with his wife Kelly, 14-year-old daughter Mikayla, and 11-year-old son Kieran, marvels at the much improved range of services now available to students at St. Mike’s and believes that the continual upgrade of these services reflects the school’s dedication to educating the whole person.

Currently, De Piero is working with the Learning Enrichment Centre staff to streamline communication in order to better support students who have suffered a concussion through the Return to Learn Programme. De Piero wants to extend these services by way of athletic education and let the students know that the Athletic Department is there for them and their families, and will do what it can to help them succeed.

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

securing our future by giving back: romeo milano ’80

men of st. michael’s: james durbano (1945-47) Gavin Davidson ’93

Every organization has those quiet individuals that can always be counted on, be it as: a volunteer needed for an event, a committee member needed, assistance with a project, a guest speaker to the students, or a financial contribution towards a specific programme or general fund at the school.

These quiet individuals become the ‘go to’ heart of an organization. They are very generous with their support, time and knowledge, however most of all they prefer to do so quietly, some anonymously, and with little to no public recognition.

St. Michael’s is no different than other organizations and we too have our quiet individuals. One such individual is Romeo Milano. When approached, Romeo mentioned that he usually doesn’t want public acknowledgement for what he does, but true to form when the school asks, Romeo does not say no.

Since his graduation Romeo has been very actively involved at St. Michael’s. As an alumnus, he has been part of the Alumni Visits, which take place in the spring, speaking to the graduating class, he has been a mentor to fellow alumni who are investigating pursuing a career similar to his, served as President of the Alumni Association and is currently a member of the Alumni Executive.

Romeo has also worked on several committees, many simultaneously, such as Turkey Roll, Homecoming, Spring BBQ & Reunion, and is the Past Chair of the Order of St. Michael. Romeo mentions that, as a student, he “played football from 1975-79; wrestled in 1975-76; a big Buzzer fan 1978-79; big into sports and house league; helped Fr. Zinger, CSB with his gardens; and loved Industrial Arts with Carl Geniole.” Romeo was selected by his peers in 1979 as the Spiritus Award winner which he said was, “very humbling.”

After graduating from St. Michael’s, Romeo says “I was a lost soul after leaving SMCS. I went to York and received a BA in Economics, a program that I did not enjoy, but where I met my wife Theresa DeSantis.

We were married in 1985.

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

After graduating in 1983, I worked as an accounting clerk at Enbridge Gas but did not like it. I left after three years to start my own food importing business, but after three years was not happy. I tried my hand at real estate for two years, still not happy. A friend asked me to help out in his Asbestos Consulting firm in 1989. What was supposed to be a temporary three month assignment turned into a career that I have loved to this day. I started my own firm in 2004.”

When Romeo isn’t volunteering at an SMCS event or sitting on a committee, he can usually be found either at Safetech Environmental Limited, where he has been a Principal & Senior Project Manager or cruising the roads on his Street Glide motorcycle. He is also the current Chair of the Toronto Construction Association (TCA).

Romeo has been a donor to the school financially as well, having supported the Building Fund and Building on Strong Foundations Capital Campaigns, and is the main supporter of the Fr. Rocco Volpe, CSB Bursary. St. Michael’s is also utilizing Romeo’s environmental knowledge as Suncor remediates the soil on the old gas station land at the corner of Bathurst and St. Clair. When asked what motivates him to give back to the school, Romeo responded that “growing up in a very Italian immigrant family, it was not easy fitting in everywhere or even knowing basic Canadian customs and protocols. As a result I was a very shy and introverted boy. St. Mike's helped open my eyes to a new world. I learned from not only the priests and teachers, but from my fellow students and their parents. That boy slowly came out of his shell, and grew up to become a confident man who is proud of his Italian heritage. I believe that I owe all that I am today to those very formative five years that I spent at St. Mike's.”

Donations to the school’s various programmes, athletics, arts, and academics, are greatly appreciated. No gift is too small! All gifts received are issued a charitable tax receipt. If you are interested in making a donation, please visit smcsgive.com for more information on the different ways you can give.

Strangely enough, the thing that best identifies James Durbano as a man of St. Michael’s is the fact that he never graduated from the College School. Had I known this when Peter Thurton ’81 (better known to some as ‘Sly’) began pitching me on this article almost two years ago I may have politely declined. Traditionally, an early departure would preclude one from being featured in this section of the Blue Banner.

Luckily for me, and indeed for all of us, I was not aware of this fact until the interview belatedly took place in October of this year in the Alumni Lounge (also lucky for me that Sly is so persistent and convincing). For if not for his persistence, and my ignorance, I would not have had the chance to learn about this wonderful man’s amazing life. And neither would many of you.

Those of you who are lucky enough to know Mr. Durbano on a personal level may be familiar with his story. While it is not unique, and is certainly a product of the times in which he grew up, it is extremely touching nonetheless.

You see, James was forced to leave St. Mike’s after completing Grade 10. Not because he wasn’t up to snuff and not because he was a troublemaker. To the contrary, James left the school, risking his own future and success, to help out his family in a time of need.

And he hasn’t stopped helping others, both those related to him and not.

There weren’t too many Italian kids attending St. Mike’s when James passed through the doors of the Bay Street campus for the first time in 1945. Those who did, often had to deal with abuse from other neighbourhood kids - maybe for being Italian, maybe

for being Catholic, or maybe for going to St. Mike’s.

“It could have been all three: Italian, Catholic, St. Mike’s student,” James reflects. “But I didn’t know why other kids would gang up on me. I just knew to run like hell, or hit and run if you’re going to fight” As if the xenophobia-inspired fights and rumbles were not enough, many of the Italians that did attend St. Mike’s during that period came from modest backgrounds. Often the money to pay their school fees originated from the backbreaking work of family-run construction businesses. Family-run, in this instance, refers not so much to the fact that it was a family owned company, but that every able-bodied member of the family helped out with the company.

And so it was with James in 1947. At the tender age of 15, fresh from successfully completing Grade 10 at SMCS, he was forced to leave the school to help out with the family business. In simpler times, this perhaps wouldn’t have been necessary, but with three of his four brothers signed up for the Canadian Armed Forces (Army and Air Force), it fell to James to support his father and help keep the family water and sewer business afloat.

He was successful in so doing, and in the process found his calling. By the age of 19, James had set out on his own, marshaling the construction of two houses in his first year of flying solo. Fortunately, St. Mike’s had already made its mark on him. So much so that immediately after leaving the school he returned in the summer of 1947 – not as a student, but as a labourer helping to create the Bathurst St. campus.

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

In the time since, James Durbano has come a long way

has bestowed upon him. He has five children, four

for the sake of feeling good and helping my family,” he

from laying sod. He now presides over the vast empire

sons and one daughter, and has been married for 40

replies thoughtfully. “The most important thing for me

of Daraban Holdings, which specializes in building retire-

years to a wonderful lady for whom he “thanks God

is to never try and take advantage of a deal or any

ment communities and assisted living accommodations.

every minute that she was brought into our life.”

person, because it will come back to haunt you. And if

Among his current projects are the development of a

you do good they will say nice things about you.”

retirement community being built on 100 acres of land

While many words can be used to describe James

in King City and a smaller, but no less impressive,

Durbano, ‘thankful’ is definitely the one that comes to

Well James, as this article proves, you’ve done a lot of

retirement condo development, at Burnhamthorpe and

mind after spending any amount of time with him. Here

good, my friend.

Cawthra in Mississauga.

is a man that has worked hard his whole life, worked for everything he has and experienced great success in

Along the way, James, who was “never one to wear a

the process. But he knows that success did not origi-

halo around (his) head,” but has been blessed with a

nate form hard work alone. James counts his blessings

strong faith, “always had a relationship with the

from Jesus and thanks God every day for all the good

school”. He pitched in “whenever they needed help

fortune he has had. “I’m a very, very lucky guy and the

and helped scholastics out whenever (he) could”, ever

reason I say all my prayers every night is because of all

since those first days out of Grade 10 when he “brought the sod at cost”.

Durbano also found time to spend 16 years serving as a Catholic school board trustee. “I was a trustee at the school board when you got no money, but I wasn’t there for the money. I was there to share my knowledge of building and land buying and I saved the school board millions of dollars. I knew a lot of builders and encouraged them all to be as fair as they could be.”

the help I have been given,” he states succinctly.

Not surprising for a man who, throughout his career, has focused on making people happy and bringing

While on the subject of providing help, I ask James

success not just to himself and his family, but the com-

what advice he might be able to give to students

munity at large, applying lessons taught to him by his

graduating from St. Mike’s today.

father and the priests, scholastics, and teachers at

insightful and right on the money, much like the man

St. Mike’s. He feels it is the least he can do in exchange

himself.

His response is

for “St. James and St. Francis (namesake of his elementary school) having always been so nice to me.”

“If young people follow what they have been taught here at the school, they will be successful. I’ve never

James credits his two years at SMCS as being essen-

put greed as part of my business. My success is more

tial both to his success in business and his dedication to sharing that success with those around him. He is thankful that the priests and scholastics instilled a feeling of pride that he attended the school and still

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“Bumping into guys from St. Mike’s in business and pleasure.”

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James is most thankful for the gift of family that the Lord

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

St. Michael’s College School is proud to announce the 2015 recipients of

meet the order of st. michael 2015 inductees NICK DI DONATO ‘76 lives his life according to Fr. Volpe, CSB ’48’s advice that being a good person is more

Orderof St. Michael The

important than financial or business success. Di Donato is President and CEO of Liberty Entertainment Group and also plays an influential role in shaping the present and future of Toronto. In November 2012, he was appointed Commissioner of the TTC. He is also a member of Heritage Toronto and the man tasked with reinvigorating Casa Loma. Despite having a hectic schedule that could likely rival even the busiest public figures, Di Donato still retains ties to St. Mike’s and sticks to the ideals he learnt from Fr. Volpe. Aside from both his sons (Justin ’08 and Luca ’11) attending the school, Di Donato recently set up a bursary fund and regularly donates venues and equipment in support of SMCS events, while his company contributes $500,000 annually towards Toronto events.

HUGH MCDOUGALL, over the course of his career at St. Michael’s, served in many facets of school life, ranging from teacher, Vice Principal, coach, and counsellor to staff manager, student recruiter, and an emerging leader in the teachers’ professional development program. He was a widely read and thoughtful enthusiast of current affairs and matters historical. Hugh soon developed into a first-rate administrator, educational innovator, and inspirational leader. His organizational and leadership skills served him well as a man of vision and values, a man courageous in his initiatives and resolute in seeing them through. From his west end headquarters, and throughout spells in Switzerland and at Father John Redmond Catholic Secondary School, Hugh never lost touch with his St. Michael’s colleagues. He continues to be a presence at sporting events, golf tournaments, the annual Turkey Roll, and at the bedsides of ailing Basilian priests, always demonstrating an indefatigable allegiance to the St. Michael’s family.

DAN PRENDERGAST is that special coach, friend, and teacher each of us remembers as significantly influencing the direction of our lives. He has given that second and third chance to many a student on the court, in the classroom, in the guidance office, or in Room 214, and at all times has been unassuming and nonjudgemental. Dan is a living example that spiritually, philosophically, and intellectually, sport can co-exist with academics. He has been a presence at St. Mike’s for more than 50 years, and has contributed to the school’s growth through his many fundraising and alumni activities. Dan Prendergast, teacher, coach, counsellor, administrator, friend, is a prime example of a St. Michael’s educator who loves his school and has dedicated his life and God-given talents to teaching students to live a life of goodness, discipline, and knowledge and to use their talents to help those in need.

FR. CECIL ZINGER, CSB, with his welcoming smile, positive attitude, and true humility, continues to be an inspiration to the students, staff, alumni, and families of St. Michael's, as has been the case for more than five decades. As a priest, teacher, coach, spiritual advisor, friend, and gentleman, Fr. Zinger has demonstrated his unwavering dedication to the Basilian principles of goodness, discipline, and knowledge. His selfless devotion to the well-being of the St. Michael's community is reflected in his faithful tending of the gardens, development of the choir, his annual compilation of the Year in Review in pictures, and his musical collaboration during masses, graduation, and other special events. The embodiment of the St. Michael's Man, Fr. Zinger has devoted much of his life to supporting our school and nurturing the spirituality of students. His unfailing kindness and generosity have contributed immeasurably to our collective spiritual growth, happiness, and success.

Mr. Nick Di Donato ’76

Mr. Hugh McDougall

Mr. Dan Prendergast

Fr. Cecil Zinger, CSB

The Order of St. Michael is the highest honour that St. Michael’s College School can bestow on a member of its community.

It is awarded to individuals who embody the Basilian Fathers’ motto, “Teach Me Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge.”

Thursday, April 23, 2015 tickets available soon

stmichaelscollegeschool.com Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

can’t stop, won’t stop: joe mauko ’90 keeps running The philosophy of High Park area resident Joe Mauko, who has hands-on experience in leading major I.T. security audits, compliance programs and integration projects in nearly every sector of business, is to take the road less travelled. Customer and team-focused, he is a big proponent of working hard for his clients. No doubt those convictions, coupled with his hard work ethic, were born back in the day when he trained and competed as a top-ranked Canadian track and field athlete and Olympic contender.

Mauko recently leveraged that experience for a 250 km run across the driest desert in the world, the Atacama – undertaken this past October in support of the Terry Fox Foundation. But it’s not the first time Mauko, a graduate from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Science degree, has put on his running shoes in support of Fox. “My wife and I, we like to find out where others are going and head the other way,” Mauko told The Bloor West Villager in a recent interview.

And so, in typical fashion, the 43-year-old extreme runner tacked on an additional 70 km before he even got to the starting line of Hamilton’s 30 km “Around the Bay Road Race”, on Sunday, March 30.

“It was a journey,” said Mauko, who set out on a Saturday night at a solid pace through Etobicoke, Mississauga, and along the Lakeshore to Oakville, where he stopped downtown at a dessert spot to down a litre of water and a Coke, while he told his servers his story.

Mauko, a one-time top pole-vaulter, former NCAA scholarship athlete and 1996 Olympic hopeful suffered a serious career-ending injury during an Olympic qualifying event. In 2002, his father suffered a massive stroke and two years later passed away in his son’s arms. As he was helping his mother cope with the loss of her husband, Mauko was diagnosed with cancer.

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

tracked every single metre of distance until a technician arrived to troubleshoot and find the culprit inside the electronics while I ran.

The problem was solved by 12 p.m. and it was smooth sailing.”

Running, he says, has fulfilled many dreams and has helped build a stronger connection with his family.

“To say my life was spiraling didn’t even scratch the surface,” Mauko said.

“I thought, ‘Is this it? Is this life?’ My dad’s advice was always to get a good education, get a job and retire 40 years later. I thought, ‘There has to be more.’ I made a conscious decision to re-evaluate.”

In January 2012, he decided he wanted to test himself both physically and mentally, even spiritually, and took up running. Twelve months later, Mauko completed the, “Haliburton Forest 100 Miles (161 km) Ultramarathon” through the Canadian Shield, billed as the toughest race east of the Rockies.

Shortly after completing the Around the Bay Road Race this March, Mauko took on another test of willpower – a 24-hour treadmill run during the Junction Business Improvement Area’s annual Summer Solstice Festival on June 21. He raised more than $5,000 in the name of the Terry Fox Foundation, running from 11 a.m. on Saturday until 11 a.m. on Sunday. Community members donated more than $1,300; The Bank of Montreal donated $1,000; and A2N Security gave $3,000. Once it was over, Mauko had run 168 km.

“Anyone can fake a marathon. With six to eight weeks of training, you can do it. It might not be pretty – I finished my first half-marathon in two-and-a-half hours,” he said. “If you want to figure out who you are, try running 160 km. You have to have a pace, and a workout plan.

You need to have a nutrition plan, and a hydration plan.”

At 3 a.m., fatigue set in and Mauko found himself sleep walking for a bit. However, the sunrise was “rejuvenating” and gave him the jolt he needed to get to 11 a.m. “I was naive to think 200 km would be a (given). It wasn’t. I went to war just to finish with 168 km,” he said.

The father of two kids, aged seven and three, is able to juggle his training with the least amount of impact on his family by running as early as 4:30 in the morning and running again on his lunch hour and again after his children are in bed. He also credits the Bank of Montreal, particularly the Dupont Street and Symington Avenue branch, and Access to Network for helping him raise funds for the Terry Fox Foundation.

“I’ve got a 2014 fundraising goal of $50,000 to the Terry Fox Foundation and I hadn’t raised a penny to-date. I don’t have a network of people with deep pockets,” he said. “With a bright idea and a partnership with the Bank of Montreal, together we coordinated this 24-hour treadmill run, something unusual to grab the attention of people coming to the Summer Solstice Festival and to trigger donations.”

Yet, Mauko said he’d like to take on the challenge again, perhaps in a crowded mall during the Christmas holidays. But before turning his attention to that feat, he needed to conquer his biggest challenge yet, by making it across the Atacama Desert.

You can find out if he was successful and read all about his adventure in his race blog.

With files from The Bloor West Villager

Twenty-four hours on the treadmill did not come without its hiccups. Mauko’s treadmill suffered a loose wire caused from transportation, disassembling and reassembling. The treadmill would stop intermittently many times over the course of the first hour.

“Initially, there was lost mileage unaccounted for and we just accepted the fact we had to start at zero miles again in the first 45 minutes of the run,” he said. “From that point on, we Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

where are they now

where are they now, teacher edition: marty story Pat Mancuso ’90 “I have really never left St. Michael’s since 1970, my

50th year directing and producing community theatre,

first year of teaching at the school. It is a spirit, a

since his first production of Jerome Lawrence’s and

family spirit, which ought to capture every student and

Robert Edwin Lee’s Inherit the Wind, in his hometown

staff member, and that camaraderie is one of main

of Cleveland, Ohio.

reasons this school can proudly call itself a Catholic Outside of the theatre and St. Michael’s, community

educational community.”

involvement remains an integral part of Marty’s life. He In addition to teach-

is active in St. Philip Neri Parish, as leader of congre-

ing

and

gational singing and chairperson of the Liturgy Com-

Religion courses at

mittee. He and his wife have lived in the same home in

St. Michael’s, Martin

Thistletown for 41 years, while his daughter lives and

Story

works in Calgary, and his son is a criminal lawyer with

English

was

also

Course Director and

Ontario Legal Aid.

Instructor

for

the

Catholic

Teacher’s

Official retirement from teaching came in 1997, but like

Additional Qualifica-

so many generous and talented former St. Michael’s

tion Religion courses

teachers, Marty continues to connect with alumni and

from 1973-2011, and

faculty to build a vibrant community, a community of

President of the Religion Department Heads Associa-

faith and culture. His mantra for a happy and success-

tion of the Toronto Catholic District School Board.

ful retirement: “Remain active and creative, maintain

From 1990-97 he served as Department Head of

friendships, care for others, and live the Christian life to

English and Drama at Father John Redmond Catholic

its fullest.”

Secondary School.

Tickets for South Pacific can be purchased online at Current retirement hobbies include golfing, cycling, walking, reading, and attending the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, but his foremost passion remains directing theatre productions. “Five years ago, I established a theatre company, Dreamtheatre Productions. It is the arts organization of the St. Michael’s Alumni Association. As a community theatre company, we attempt to gain participation from both St. Michael’s alumni and stage alumni/alumnae. However, we open our organization to anyone interested in the arts and theatre production.” Dreamtheatre will bring Marty’s 88th production, Rodgers’ and Hammerstein’s musical, South Pacific, to the St. Michael’s Centre for the Arts, in January 2015. Learning Enrichment Centre teacher Allison O’Neill fills the lead role of Nellie Forbush and Fr. Bill May, CSB, of the Theology Department plays Captain Brackett. This is Marty’s

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

dreamtheatreproductions.com.

William (Bill) James McDonagh ’48 was born in Rouyn/Noranda on April 30, 1928, and raised in Ansonville, Ontario. Bill’s father’s dream was for his three sons to excel at a sport and not settle for a job at the local paper mill. He was first in town to build a backyard rink for his children to learn to skate and play hockey. After the town learned that Mr. McDonagh was using the town water on his backyard rink and not paying for the water, an agreement was reached where the town gave up some school property and Mr. McDonagh built a bigger rink to be used by all the neighbourhood kids.

Later, Mr. McDonagh arranged with the local Catholic Church for Bill to attend St. Mike’s for his final year of high school and play hockey for the St. Michael’s Buzzers. To this day, hockey continued to be Bill’s passion.

After graduating from St. Mike’s in 1948, Bill attended Assumption College in Windsor. In 1949, the Detroit Red Wings drafted him and then sold him to the New York Rangers. His daughter recently sorted through Bill’s archives while packing up the family home and was overwhelmed by her father’s professional hockey career. His ‘steamer trunk’ is packed with memorabilia from Bill’s hockey career with the St. Michael’s Majors, Detroit Brights-Goodyears (IHL), New York Rangers (NHL), New Haven Ramblers (AHL), St. Paul Saints (USHL), Shawinigan Cataractes (QMHL), Sydney Millionaires (MMHL), Fredericton Capitals (NBSHL), University of New Brunswick (YCHL) and Sudbury Wolves (OHA Sr.). Bill’s most prized possessions are his official New York Rangers picture, Beehive hockey card and official Rangers game programs with his name in the line up. To this date, he still receives requests to have his hockey card autographed.

In 1953, he returned to school at the University of New Brunswick to study Geology. He continued his hockey career at the university until graduating in 1957. Along the way his family with Beatrice grew to four children (Thomas, Patrick, Cynthia, and Bill Jr.). In 1957 he moved his family to Levack, Ontario to work for Inco. His first love was always hockey and he was very disappointed his employer INCO made it difficult for any of the workers to have Saturday night off to play for the Sudbury Wolves OHA Sr. team,

as the hockey players were paid a good wage for one game per week. In the summer of 1961, he attended teachers college at Queens University, which landed him his first teaching job at Marmora High School.

After a year in Marmora, Bill moved his family back to northern Ontario, to a small company town called Copper Cliff. Having been raised in a company town (Ansonville, Ontario) from 1930-47, the opportunity to return to a similar locale was not a difficult choice for him. His 31 years teaching and coaching is packed with many awards and championships. During his tenure at Copper Cliff High School (CCHS), which lasted from 1962-80, Bill coached junior hockey, football and track and field. Many Northern Ontario Secondary School Association (NOSSA) championships were won in all three areas. His biggest win was CCHS’s first ever NOSSA junior football championship in 1968 and many more followed. After CCHS was closed in 1980, Bill moved to Lo Ellen Park Secondary (Sudbury) until he retired in 1993. He continued coaching junior hockey and football, winning a few more championships.

His ‘steamer trunk’ has leather jackets for every winning year. He was the last former Copper Cliff High School teacher to leave Copper Cliff, on July 25, 2014.

Bill’s professional hockey career may have ended in 1953, but his love of playing the game everyday never abated. In the early 60s, a group of former Sudbury Wolves OHA Sr. hockey players rented an hour of ice time on Sunday at the Sudbury Arena, which led to the creation of the Sudbury Oldtimers Hockey Club. He spent Sunday mornings for 38 years playing for the Sudbury Oldtimers, and another two decades playing three times a week or the Walden Oldtimers. Bill’s oldtimers hockey career gave him the opportunity to play in tournaments in Amsterdam, Vancouver, as well as the Charles Schultz Tournament in Santa Rosa.

In the late 60s, Laurentian University Hockey Coach Jack Porter, invited Bill and a few other Sudbury boys to play against the Russians. While clearing out the family home this summer, his eldest sons called Cynthia to ensure she didn’t throw out the ‘Russian hockey stick’, which is Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

safely tucked away. In April 2013, the North Bay Nugget wrote a story about Bill, after learning the Walden Oldtimers had a hockey player who was over 80.

The newspaper article and accompanying TV clip were titled ‘Oldest Hockey Player in Ontario, 84-year-old Bill McDonagh.’ Bill was inducted into Hockey Heritage North in the early 2000s and the Sudbury Kinsman’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.

Lou Pennachetti (1955-56) and Antoinette celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on September 12, together with their children, Lou Jr., David, and Lisa, and grandchild Ava. While at St. Mike’s, Lou was a resident on campus at Tweedsmuir House, living under the guidance of flatmaster Fr. Penny, CSB. After graduating, Lou earned his BA Economics and BComm Business from Assumption University in Windsor. Born and raised in Thorold, Ontario, Lou is a long time resident of Burlington. He has maintained strong ties over the years with St. Mike's and Windsor grads including good friend Mike Lavelle ’55, an ex-roommate at Assumption University. Lou sends his best wishes to all past classmates.

George Rautins ’70 has worked in the financial services industry for the past 30 years. He is currently employed by the Young and Frederick Investment Solutions Group at Scotia Mcleod in Whitby, a member of the Scotiabank Group. George is a Certified

Investment Manager, Fellow of The Canadian Securities Institute and holds the designation of Chartered Strategic Wealth Professional. He is the proud father of two lovely daughters: Sandy, an interior designer in Boca Raton, Florida; and Cara, a teacher in Kingston, Ontario. Cara is set to make George a beaming grandfather this coming June. George still actively participates in basketball and basically never stopped playing. He squares off against Vince Santoro ’71 in the Scarborough Masters League, and plays regularly in Masters Basketball Tournaments, including competitions in Buffalo and Florida this past year. George’s old Blue Raiders teammate Rob Stewart ’71 has joined him in past Masters Tournaments. George, who enjoys many activities such as boating, kayaking, cycling and fishing, wants to remind the SMCS community that he ‘schooled’ both Leo ’78 and Andy Rautins, enabling them to achieve their basketball dreams. However, George’s primary goal in life remains to someday beat Coach P. in golf.

The Class of ’74 celebrated their 40th anniversary at Atlantis Pavilions on Tuesday, October 21. Thirty classmates took part in the celebration.

Cezary Paluch ’87 is a lawyer at Paluch Law LLP, in Toronto. He lives with his wife, Marta, and their two children, David and Victoria, in south Mississauga. Cezary is continuing the St. Michael's tradition with David ’19 now attending SMCS, and Victoria attending our sister school, Holy Name of Mary College School.

Marc ’93 and Amy Montemurro and daughter Elle welcome Thomas Rafael Montemurro into their family.

Wiz Khayat ’96 and Jeff Dean ’96, along with their partner Craig Shannon, are the brains behind Trimaven Capital Advisors Inc.. Recently profiled in both the Globe and Mail and National Post, the firm is making a name for itself in the investment banking community by focusing on real estate deals. Previously, Jeff was

a veteran at RBC Capital Markets and Wiz was a lawyer at Norton Rose. Noting a gap in the ‘boutique’ investment bank space in the real estate sector, the team has worked tirelessly to repeat the success of Western Canada-based oil-and-gas focused boutique firms.

Ron Clarkin ’79 Recent deals completed by Trimaven include a $210married Jeannie million sale by Huntingdon Capital Corp. to Slate PropSt. Michael’ s Class of 1974 Reunion, Atlantis Pavilions, October 21 , 2014 Back Row Standing: Larry Kavanaugh, John O’ Hara, Rick Bozzato, Roger Buckley, Rod Lobraico, Angelo Castallan, Frank Grossi, Claudio Totino, Piero Suppa, Thomas Flannery, Andy Gaputis, Eddie Gasparotto, Gerry Andrenacci, on May 17, erties Inc. and advising Royal Host Inc. on its sale to Paul Zucchi, George Alt Back Row Sitting: John Munaghan, Michael Church, Ron Kenny, Peter Mohan, Michael Gariepy, George Birinyi, Joe Meschino.

Front Rowis Sitting: Brian Flynn, Andy Rasiulis, Marty Kenney, Sam D’ Uva, Ramunas Saplys, Ray Paskauskas, Peter Higgins 2014. He Holloway Lodging Corp. It has also advised on two real pictured here estate deals for New York-based activist investors with his best Orange Capital LLC. man Acton ’10 Major Matt Napier ’00 of the Canadian Armed Forces, and daughter son of former NHLer Mark Napier, played for the BuzzMariah. He would like us all to know that Jeannie was ers in 1999-2000. After graduating from the University fine with not being included in the photograph!

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

st

of Toronto, he went on to obtain his law degree from the University of Windsor. Following several years working in corporate law, Matt is presently with the Office of the Judge Advocate General and is stationed at Camp Petawawa. Matt is also the author of several children’s books on hockey.

Julian De Gasperis ’01 married Ashleigh on September 29, 2013 at Casa Loma.

Andrew Cogliano ’05 is known far and wide as the ‘Iron Man’. Since starting his NHL career with the Edmonton Oilers in 2007, Andrew has appeared in all 540 regular season games, ranking him second for consecutive games played among active players.

Daniel Garcia ’07 graduated from McMaster University with a Master of Science in Kinesiology in 2013. During his time there, he was awarded the National Sciences and Engineering Research Council Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplements Award to study at John Moores University, in Liverpool, England. Currently, he is a medical student at University College Cork, Ireland, where he hopes to practice sports medicine after graduation.

Alexander Moretti ’08 co-founded an entertainment and marketing company with Richard Liorti ’08 called Crowned Entertainment. Alexander is also currently working at Erie Meat Products, specializing in retail sales.

Blue Banner | Fall/Winterer 2014

in memoriam George

ceased by his loving wife Doris Jean, son Michael,

Vincent Devitt, a former

Dr. Hugh Canning ’45 died

Baigent ’33 passed away

brothers Joseph ’24, William ’24, Fr. James, CSB ’28,

student who left SMCS in

suddenly at his cottage on

peacefully at Sunnybrook

Fr. Clarence, CSP ’33, Thomas and sisters Madeline

1945, passed away peace-

the shores of Lake Scugog

Health Sciences Centre

(Sr. Pauline, IBVM), Gertrude and Margaret. Father of

fully on March 15, 2014.

on July 1, 2014. During his

on August 16, 2014, at

Bernadette and dear grandfather to Christine, Greg

Vince

years

age 97. Survived by his

and Laura Aziz and Larissa and Stephanie Wilson,

career

patient wife of 58 years,

Patrick was survived by his younger brother John and

reporting for the Globe and

proud

Sallee Mosteller, his son

his wife Patricia, as well as many nieces, nephews,

Mail, The Telegram and the Toronto Star before

school band. Hugh enjoyed

Alan ’76, daughters Mary

grandnieces and grandnephews. Donations in Pat's

moving into government at Queen's Park. Prede-

name can be made to the Parkinson Society Canada,

ceased by wife Mary Anne and survived by wife Patt,

a thriving dental practice at

or the charity of your choice.

Vincent was beloved father to Nan, Martha, Paula, and

Robert

(Bob)

Sue and Judy, Bob was born in Toronto in 1916. Bob also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and his sibling Eleanor Lunney, and was predeceased by two sons, Michael and Taylor. Bob was an avid investor in the stock market and faithful reader of the Northern Miner. Bob spent the last three years of his life under the care of the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre and the family would like to thank all staff for their loving care and support.

Charles Patrick ‘Pat’ Wilson ’36, brother of Dr. John K. ’42 and uncle of Brian ’72, passed away peacefully at Etobicoke General Hospital on September 17, 2014, in his 97th year. While at St. Mike’s,

Pat

excelled

in

enjoyed in

a

long

journalism,

Mim, and proud grandfather to Joseph, Maeve, Dr. John Anthony Harper ’43 died peacefully on

Oonagh, Daniel, Alex, Thomas, Vincent, Maggie,

September 6, 2014, at the age of 89. While at SMCS,

Martha, Hayley and Owen.

John played on the Jr. A hockey team that went on to

at

St.

Michael’s

College School, he was a member

of

the

Queen St. and Yonge St. for 45 years, where he developed lifelong friendships with his patients and made a lasting impression on many.

He donated his time and professional talents to the Ontario Dental Association and the Catholic Children’s Aid Society in Toronto. Along with his wife Ann, he was

win the Memorial Cup. He graduated from the Faculty

Paul Bracken ’45, brother of the late Kevin ’50 and

of Medicine at the University of Toronto in 1948 and

Emmett ’52, passed away at home on July 10, 2014.

continued his specialist studies at St. Vincent Hospital

Paul quarterbacked the St. Michael’s senior football

in New York, Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, and

team from 1944-46, where, during the undefeated

Montreal General Hospital, before returning to Toronto

1944-45 season, they travelled to Winnipeg, winning

to begin his life-long career at St. Michael's Hospital as

the first East-West Series. He was also a member of

a respected obstetrician and gynaecologist. Jack was

the St. Michael’s THL Midget Championship hockey

also an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and

team in 1944. Paul married his high school sweetheart,

Gynaecology at the University of Toronto. He was a

the late Marie Bracken, in 1956, and they were married

wonderful teacher and clinician, long remembered by

for 53 years. After high school, Paul entered the insur-

his colleagues and students. He retired from practice

ance business, where he enjoyed a long career as an

in 2003, having performed thousands of surgeries and

adjuster. In this role, he was involved in many large

delivered an estimated 4,000 babies.

infrastructure projects, including the Bruce Nuclear

Dan McCarthy ’46 passed

Power Plant and the CN Tower. Paul was also an avid

away peacefully on January

athletics, later pursuing a

a member of the Parents’ Guild at St. Michael’s College School from 1970-81. Hugh was predeceased by his son Hugh ’75 and brother-in-law John Sullivan ’44. He is survived by his wife Ann, his daughter Ann Marie Higgins (Peter Higgins ’74) and two sons Michael ’78 and Ted ’81, his nine grandchildren, who include Peter Higgins ’99 and Conner Higgins ’03, his four great-grandchildren and brother-in-law David Sullivan ’45. Dr. Canning will be remembered for his strong Catholic faith and for his loyalty to St. Michael’s.

professional hockey career

Jack was committed to helping others. Along with his

golfer and a long-time member at the Board of Trade

10, 2013, at 86 years of age

that was interrupted by

late wife Jody, he dedicated his time to helping the

Golf & Country Club. Paul was a true character and

in Arnprior, Ontario, leaving

WWII when he enlisted in

mentally handicapped, as well as to causes affecting

lived life to the fullest. He was incredibly sharp until his

Mary Sue, his wife of 58

the RCAF in 1942, completing over 30 sorties. His

women and those less fortunate. Jack will be lovingly

last day, and even took in a movie with his grandchil-

years, and seven children.

hockey career included time as a player and coach of

remembered by his family and friends as a kind and

dren only two weeks before he passed away. He

Dan was one of the better-

a number of Canadian and U.S. IHL and AHL teams

joyful person. He had a great sense of humour; his

survived several accidents over his final years, and his

known figures at SMCS,

including time as the player coach of the 1952 Allan

quick wit and ability to make others laugh were equally

resilience and toughness never ceased to inspire those

both on and off the campus.

Cup finalists, the Stratford Indians. He later pursued a

matched by his wisdom and insight. Jack was truly

he met. Despite some health issues over the last years

He was involved in the dramatic club, senior oratorical

career in the insurance industry. An avid golfer, he

loved by all who knew him. He enjoyed his life to the

of his life, he was never depressed and woke up every

contests, music and singing, radio announcing and

played well into his 90s. The WWII RCAF Flying Officer,

fullest, especially with family and friends on long

day happy to be alive – a testament to his love of life

sports casting. In the 1943 Thurible yearbook it is

Bomber Command 408 Goose Squadron, was prede-

summer days at his Lake Simcoe retreat.

and powerful optimism.

recorded that “Dan McCarthy was the second best

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

speaker in the senior oratorical contest”. He won this

Albert Giuseppe Lugli ’54

Archie

’54

Fred Goddard ’55 passed

honor with a speech entitled ‘Death in the Strato-

passed away suddenly and

passed away in Ottawa,

away peacefully at Providence

sphere’. He spent a year in the novitiate with the

peacefully March 9, 2014, at

on

2014,

Healthcare

Paulist Fathers in New Jersey and then returned to

the age of 80, following a

after

heroic

illness, at the age of 79. Fred

Toronto, graduating with a Liberal Arts BA degree from

severe stroke he suffered

struggle. Archie was born

was the loving husband of 54

the University of St. Michael’s College, emphasizing

more than eight years ago.

on November 29, 1935, in

years to Lorraine, dear father

Theology, Music and Drama.

Beloved husband of Louise,

Falconbridge, Ontario, and

to Michele, Chris, Elizabeth,

with whom he shared count-

spent

in

John, and Jane, proud Papa

Dan worked at the CBC as a radio and television

less warm memories and

Chichester, Quebec. After

to Nicole, Mary and Alex,

producer for 33 years, including production of a prize

laughs over the course of 52

graduating

dear brother-in-law to Betty,

winning radio series ‘How Do You Say Hello’. Working

years, together with their treasured children Peter

Michael's College School,

the late Denise, and JoAnne. Fred had a long and

with UNICEF he visited 13 countries in Southeast

Marie, Mark, John and Monique. He was the loved

he went on to be part of the first graduating class at

distinguished career at the Bank of Nova Scotia. Upon

Asia, interviewing children about how they learned to

"Papa Butch" to his cherished grandchildren Justine,

Laurentian University. Archie taught Math and Science

retirement, he was so happy to be at his beloved

communicate. In television he produced and devel-

Vincent, Caroline, Alexandre, Zachary, Gabrielle,

for 33 years, first at Nickel District High School and

cottage on Silver Birch Beach, overlooking the beauti-

oped ‘The Friendly Giant’, ‘Mr. Dress Up’, and later the

Jacob, Noah and Mackenzie. Al was predeceased by

then at Confederation Secondary School in Val Caron.

ful waters of Georgian Bay.

Canadian version of ‘Sesame Street’. As head of

his father, Giuseppe, and mother, Margherita, and two

Archie was active in St. John The Evangelist Parish in

children’s programming for the CBC for 12 years, he

elder sisters, Vera Tramontini and Derna Ghiandoni.

Garson, up to the 90s, when he joined Holy Redeemer

Justin McCarthy ’56 died peacefully on May 11, 2014,

worked passionately to assure quality programming

He will be sadly missed by his sister, Fern Lee of

Parish in Sudbury. Archie was a lector, eucharistic

at the age of 76. A fighter to the end, he was diagnosed

for all children. In his family life, Dan filled his home

Copper Cliff, in the ‘Little Italy’ of Sudbury, where he

minister, RCIA catechist and sponsor, member of the

with pancreatic cancer last fall. In his years at St.

with music, especially opera, musical comedies, and

was born and fondly remembered by his many

Cosmology group, and volunteer at the Food Bank.

Mike’s, he represented the school on the Eaton’s high

liturgical music. He and his wife moved to Arnprior in

in-laws, nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues.

Archie enjoyed an active retirement, caring for many

school council, as quarterback of the Senior Kerry

loved ones, indulging his passions for antiques, farm-

Blues, vice-president of the student council, and class

Al graduated in 1958, from Assumption University in

ing, food, and spending time with his beloved grand-

valedictorian. After attending university at Assumption

Donald Platt ’48, brother of the late Fr. Edwin Platt,

Windsor, and Niagara University in New York, in 1976.

daughter, Hayley Deanna.

College, he had a successful career in marketing and

CSB ’41, Fr. Wallace Platt, CSB ’42, the late Hugh ’43

He had a distinguished career in education, first as a

and Norman ’48, passed away peacefully on May 27,

teacher of English and History in Sudbury, Chelms-

Predeceased by his loving parents Walter and Rose,

many years in commercial real estate with an interna-

2014, in his 84th year. He was also the beloved

ford, Windsor, and Levack, then as vice-principal and

Archie was the beloved husband of the late Adele

tional organization.

brother of Marie Verity, Ursula Reid, Jeannette Wind-

principal at Confederation Secondary School in Val

Poirier, cherished father of Lisa and Darren, loving

feld, and the late Robert Platt, the late John Platt, the

Caron. He would later become superintendent and

father-in-law of Roy Mullen, devoted grandfather of

A small guy with a big heart, Justin was a master at

late Ruth McGraw, and the late Anne Platt. Donald,

then director of education for the Dryden Public

Hayley Mullen, dear father figure of Peter Marchildon,

remembering people and always called you by name,

who was a proud member of 1950s Canadian Davis

School Board, where his colleagues affectionately

admired brother-in-law of Gloria Lachapelle and Ther-

no matter how long it had been since he saw you. He

Cup Teams, was also the uncle of staff member

called him ‘Big Al, the kiddies' pal’ in recognition of his

ese Poirier, adored uncle of the Lefebvres, Poiriers,

never forgot a face. He married his high school sweet-

Dianne Levine, and great uncle to Michael Levine ’03,

commitment to students and their education, above

and Lachapelles, and loving Godfather of Darryl

heart, Catherine Killingsworth, sister of Ted ’55, in

Geoffrey Platt ’03, Paul Levine ’04, John David Levine

all else. Before he retired, Al was superintendent of

Morin. He will be sadly missed by many cousins and

1963, and they had three children, Paul ’93, Justin, and

’06, and Stephen Levine ’09.

education for the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic

his loyal friends, Marcelle Gagne, Norma Mullen, Fr.

Mary Jo.

District School Board.

Charles Mathieu, Dennis Grabish, the late Brother

2003 to be near their grandchildren.

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

Swarbrick

February a

his

12,

brief,

summers from

St.

after

a

long

advertising, owned a radio station in Ajax, and spent

Francis Richards, and many special people at Holy

Justin was a good athlete, having played football,

Redeemer Parish.

hockey, baseball, tennis and golf. He was highly

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

He was also very

John Alan Long ’64 passed

musically inclined and led many a late night party in

away peacefully surrounded

song with his guitar. He loved a good party and could

by family at Sunnybrook

always make people laugh with a list of jokes for all

Hospital on July 27, 2014, at

occasions. Justin was a man of deep faith, a kind and

the age of 68. John was the

compassionate individual who has enriched many

beloved darling of Judy, loving

competitive and tough as nails.

lives. He will be missed, but never forgotten. Our prayers go out to Catherine, his children and three grandchildren.

Raoul ‘Ray’ Janssen ’56 passed away peacefully on October 8, 2014, at the age of 77. A member of the Bell Pioneers, Ray was the beloved husband of Kathy, loving father of Lori, Cindy, Terri and Mark and cherished grandfather of Michael, Robert, Tyler, and Amanda. Ray will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Joseph Anthony Grimaldi ’57 passed away peacefully on August 31, 2014, at St. Joseph's Health Centre, at the age of 75.

Joseph was the beloved brother of Roseann and Anthony, cherished uncle of Paul, John, Peter, Lisa, Lauren, and Dana, and cherished great-uncle of Rio, Jason, Kezia, Alyssa, Stella, Matteo and Marco.

Joseph Rocco Losole ’59 passed away May 3, 2014, at St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Barry's Bay. Joseph was beloved husband of Lois, father to Janet and Peter and proud papa to Jake, Riley, Jocelyn and Natalie. Born in Toronto in 1940, Joseph passed away peacefully with his family by his side. In memory of Joseph, donations can be made to St. Francis Memorial Hospital Foundation to help fund their Hospice Palliative Care Ward.

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

father of Adam Long, Ian Hunter, Laura Clarke, greatest ‘G-dad’ of Gavin, Tyler, Chloe

Please also remember friends and family of the St. Michael’s Family: Sharon Marie Prendergast, wife of long-timer

supporter; Maria Libera, grandmother of Michele

teacher, coach and administrator Dan Prendergast,

Di Leo ’12 and mother-in-law to Gennaro Di Leo

passed away peacefully with her family by her side on

(SMCS faculty member); Mary Kitchen, aunt of Paul

May 16, 2014, at the age of 72. Sharon was the mother

Thomson ’65.

of Dan ’89, Ryan ’03, Erin, and Kelly Fox, grandmother of Ben Fox ’19, Emma, Madeline, Noah, Toma and

children and grandchildren were the loves of his life. Those

Hana, dear sister of Bryan Flanagan and sister-in-law

wishing to make a donation in memory of Alan are asked

of Helen and Julia Sharon. Predeceased by brother

to consider KidSport Ontario by visiting www.kidsport.ca.

Paul Flanagan, Sharon was deeply loved by her husband and four children. She was an extraordinary,

Peter Edward O’Rourke ’66,

brave woman, a wonderful mother and an exceptional

passed away on April 14,

nurse. In memoriam, donations to Kensington Hospice

with cancer. Peter was a kind and generous man, and throughout his life, family always came first. He leaves his wife of 43 years, Penny,

and

cherished

would be appreciated by her family.

Ezio Curti, father-in-law to Darryl Giancola, SMCS staff member; Elizabeth Ewing, grandmother of Nicholas ’17 and Mitchell ’17; Vincenzo Romualdi, grandfather of Nicholas D'Amico ’03 and Francesco Bertucca ’14,

daughter, Kristin. Peter is predeceased by his parents

and father-in-law to Frank Bertucca ’83; Alberico

Mabel and James, and younger brother, Bill. He was

Vitullo, father of Enzo Vitullo (retired Director of

deeply loved and will be sorely missed by siblings, Paul

Athletics) and grandfather of Michael ’01 and

O'Rourke and Sandy Forhan, and many nieces, nephews

Robert

and friends. He always enjoyed spending time with family

Dr. Jim ’68, William ’70, Tom ’74, and David ’80;

and close friends, and was the life of any party. Peter was

Isabella

a very successful entrepreneur, who had a passion for

employee John Cooke; Angelo Carcasole, father to

building companies, brands, and ideas from the ground up. He had a fulfilling career in advertising and media, establishing full-service agencies such as Gray O'Rourke Sussman, and he brought his business acumen to many other organizations, including radio stations. His latest

to Robert ’14 and Paul ’14; Peter Kratz, brother of Brent ’76 and son of Jackie, a long time SMCS hockey

and Liam, and brother-in-law of Gerry Sturgess. Alan's

2014, after a brief battle

father-in-law to Joseph Kennedy ’76 and grandfather

’05;

Dr.

Cooke,

Margaret

Mahoney,

grandmother

of

mother

SMCS

of

arena

Enzo (staff member) and grandfather to David ’14; Paul Paolone, father of Joseph ’09; Gaspare DiMaria grandfather of Lucas ’16; Alexander Liakakos grandfather to Alexander ’12, Steven ’19 and Jason ’19; Lillian

business endeavor was a not-for-profit organization, The

Sharpe, mother of Ken ’60; Robert Royiwsky, father of

Centre for Education & Training, where he served as

John ’03, Steven ’03, Jeffrey ’07, and Adrian ’08;

chairman of the board. Peter never stood still and was

Angela Blasi, grandmother to Philip ’17; Stanley

deeply committed to his work. He had a million-dollar-

Walsh, grandfather to Alex ’11 and Christopher ’14;

smile and the luck of the Irish on his side.

Marilyn Sanci, wife of Len Sanci ’56; Norman Street,

GIFTS FROM THE UNITED STATES

St. Michael’s College School community members who live in the United States and wish to make a donation can now make a tax-deductible contribution to Friends of Independent School and Better Education (FRISBE).

Please ensure to ask that it considers a grant to SMCS. FRISBE is a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation established to facilitate contributions from U.S. residents to Canadian educational institutions.

FRISBE promotes and encourages educational institutions emphasising scholarship, sportsmanship, moral character and initiative – all of which we at St. Michael’s subscribe to and encourage in our young men.

As a U.S. resident, if you wish to donate to SMCS, please make your cheque payable to FRISBE. FRISBE is unable to process credit card donations at this time. Upon receipt of your cheque, FRISBE will issue you a tax receipt and will notify St. Michael’s that you have requested that FRISBE make a grant to SMCS on your behalf.

We thank you for supporting St. Michael’s College School.

Visit smcsgive.com

Blue Banner | Fall/Winter 2014

the way we were: a hockey story Steve Pozgaj ’71 Basketball was huge at St. Mike's during my tenure.

St. Mike's was always identified with hockey (and still is), but basketball gave hockey a run for its money during the late 60s. Like I said, basketball wasn't my thing, and neither was hockey. However, I loved hockey!

I lived on Quebec Avenue, near High Park, and we kids used to play shinny every day at the Humberside High School rink until it got too dark to see. So, I really wanted to play hockey at St. Mike's, but the TTC prevented me. You see, my mother raised me, after my father had left us when I was in Grade 3 or Grade 4. She provided very well for me all my life, but made it clear when I expressed interest in St. Mike's, as we heard about the school in Grade 8, that if I wanted to go there, I'd have to get a bursary, because we couldn't afford the tuition. I was never sure about that - whether she really meant it, or whether she was just trying to motivate my studies. Regardless, it worked, and I did get the bursary.

they had great equipment. I was a bumpkin, with used stuff scrounged from various second-hand sporting stores, which were very popular in those days. Still, I wanted to try for the team. However, the practices ran later than the cut-off time for TTC student fares ... and thus were crushed my dreams of following another Croatian alumnus, Frank Mahovlich ’57.

Still, there is a happy ending to this hockey story.

My son, Ivan ’97, got into hockey at the ripe age of five, and turned out to be an excellent player. He always wanted to go to St. Mike's, ‘like his dad’, and when that materialized he ended up making his mark in hockey.

In 1996, he scored both goals in an historic 2-1 overtime win against Father Henry Carr high school, when the Baby Blues he captained won the TDCAA championship, having previously beaten the Senior Double Blues for the first time ever. He also claimed the tournament MVP ring at the St. Mike's Invitational in 1995.

I used to love watching him play hockey. I never had any vicarious emotions at his games; it was never me seeing myself in his skates. Rather, it was the pure joy and pride of a father seeing a son so skilled loving the game so much. Hearing the other fathers' amazement was quite a thrill, too - "Did you see that move number 10 made?" "Did you see him pick off the corner?"

"What a goal!" It always made me smile wryly, especially when we were at out-of-town games, and nobody knew I was his father.

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Ivan ’97 and Wendel Clark But we couldn't afford hockey equipment, either - at least, not ‘real’ equipment, like all the Leaside guys, Dave Gardner ’71 (who later played in the NHL for a while), Ken Basnicki ’71 (who came to a tragic end in the New York twin towers attack, being stuck on the 110th floor), John Sinclair ’71, and the rest of my hockey-playing classmates. We were all good friends, but there was a very clear line between the ‘have's’ and the ‘have not's’. They were good hockey players, and

Ensuring the continuing health, growth, and success of our beloved school

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