Michael John Ondusko

Ondusko, Michael (Mike)

Michael (Mike) John Ondusko, age 84, of North Bay, Ontario passed away on December 19, 2019 while visiting his son, Gilbert, and his family in Washington State.

Mike was born on July 7, 1935 in Kirkland Lake, Ontario to Michael and Anna Ondusko.  He was the last remaining Ondusko of his generation having already said goodbye to his two older sisters, Annie and Mary, as well as his younger siblings, Margaret and Joseph. 

Mike grew up enjoying all the wonders and joys that come from growing up in Northern Ontario, hunting and fishing with his brother Joe, two activities he loved and would continue long into retirement.   Mike helped his father from a young age keeping the books for the general store in Geraldton, and he later opened his own bottling shop. 

Mike met, fell for, and married Doris Dumas in 1955 soon after she came to Geraldton to teach.  Together they had three children; John, Yvonne, and Gilbert.  Mike and Doris moved to North Bay, Ontario in 1963 where they became established and made a home for themselves and their children. 

The move to North Bay saw Mike going to Teacher’s College and launching a long career in education.  He taught in the various elementary schools in North Bay and brought a particular flare to his teaching.  He would demand respect and, in return, rewarded his students with creative learning such as building an observational beehive on his classroom window.  He completed his Master’s degree in teaching and began his preliminary courses for a PhD. 

Mike retired in 1997 to enjoy time in the community that had become his home.  During retirement, Mike continued to go ice fishing, travelled extensively with Doris and the ‘peanut trailer,’ and met with the Coffee Club as often as possible.  

Mike passes the torch to his sons, John and Gilbert; their spouses, Jaqueline and Kelli, as well as four grandchildren; Ryan Adams, Sasha Ondusko, Eally Ondusko, and Jacob Ondusko. 

Mike was a good man, a kind friend, and a warm grandfather, and he will be missed by many.  Any family and friends wishing to contact the family may do so at mjo3@shaw.ca or gkondusko@gmail.com

Family and friends are invited to the Visitation to be held at the McGuinty Funeral Home (North Bay) on Wednesday January 8, 2020 from 6pm to 9pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Name of Jesus Parish on Friday January 10, 2020 at 11am. In lieu of flowers, at the request of the family, please, make a donation to the Holy Name of Jesus Parish, 895 Memorial Drive, North Bay.  Online condolences can be made at www.mcguintyfuneralhome.com