It is with profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Michael Vagnini on February 13, 2024, at the age of 62 due to natural causes. Michael was born on September 1, 1961 in the town of Creighton Mine, Ontario to parents Anthony and Patricia (Cayen) Vagnini, both predeceased. He was the beloved father, mentor, and best friend to daughters Alison Vagnini and Erin Vagnini (Michael), and the proud Nonno to his beautiful granddaughter Adora. He is deeply missed by Leslie Vagnini with whom he shared his two daughters. He is lovingly missed by Janie Galipeau and her daughters Peyton and Paige, and his canine friends Luna and Winston. He also leaves behind his dear siblings Barbara Vagnini and Peter (Christine) Vagnini and so many special nieces and nephews. He is lovingly remembered by his Aunt Glorianne (Vagnini) and Uncle Willard Burke. Michael had so many wonderful family, friends, and clients with whom he had such meaningful relationships. They will all miss him dearly.
Michael lived an interesting life. As a young man, he graduated from Laurentian University, where he earned a Bachelor of Honours degree in geography with ideas of one day becoming a city planner. Instead, he parlayed his education into 40 successful years in the financial sector, after which he decided to follow in his father's footsteps by becoming a public servant. He served three terms in Walden as Councillor of Ward 2 - he was acclaimed for one of them. Always by his side was his greatest advocate, friend and advisor, Tom Price.
In various walks of life, Michael was dedicated to making an impact on his community. This was demonstrated by his many leadership roles such as serving as chair and vice-chair on the Greater Sudbury Police Services Board, advocating for volunteer firefighter services, but most notably through a personal endeavour called “No One Eats Alone”. Michael was known for his advocacy. He championed forcefully for the Maison McCulloch Hospice and was instrumental in the expansion to provide more care to the local community. He devoted much of his life to meeting the individual needs of others as he would often personally take it upon himself to conduct snow removal by shovelling driveways and sidewalks, inspecting road concerns, or distributing meals on a Saturday night in downtown Sudbury.
Michael’s family will always have fond memories of him at his cottage on Lake Panache - his favourite place to relax and unwind. There, you would find him enjoying his boat or entertaining the many friends that loved being in his presence. He will be deeply missed at family gatherings as he was always the centre of attention! His flashy wardrobe was a true depiction of his character and his new set of wings is now his most sparkly jacket!
Michael will always be remembered for his infectious smile, incisive wit, and unwavering commitment to others; but to him, the crowning achievement and light of his life was his two daughters.
Although Michael’s passing leaves us with this infinite sorrow, his legacy endures through his generosity, compassion, and the immense impact he had on his community.
Michael’s family cannot put into words how deeply grateful they are for all of those that assisted in the days leading up to his passing. The prayers and outpouring of support from across the province were a comforting force during a difficult time. To the volunteers, the Search and Rescue teams, Sudbury Regional Police, and The OPP, the family cannot thank you enough for your incredible efforts.
Michael will be forever missed.
Memorial Mass at St. Pius X Church, Lively. Saturday , March 2nd, 2024, at 11:00am. This will be a Roman Catholic liturgy to celebrate Michael’s faith tradition. The church’s capacity is approx. 250 people. There will be reserved seating for the family and relatives. The service is open to all other on a first come first seating basis. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Friends may gather at the church after 10:30am Saturday .
A Michael Vagnini “My Way” Celebration of Life will be held at the Walden Arena in the upstairs Hall, Saturday, March 23rd, 2024 at 2:00pm. This will be a celebration of Michael’s life with words of remembrance from family and friends and Michael’s favorite music. The hall holds 260 people with reserved seating for family, all other seats will be open to the public. We know seating will be tight- but we know Michael would only want this celebration in his home Arena (the ice is in the rink area to June). This service will be livestreamed for all others to watch, Friends may gather at the arena after 1pm Saturday, March 23rd, 2024.
In lieu of flowers donations to the Michael Vagnini Bursary Fund would be appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to the Lougheed Funeral Home. www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com