April 9, 2020
1968-2020 ~ Michael Terrence Schellinck, youngest child of Hank and Tucky Schellinck, passed away April 9th after a brief battle with cancer. He was 51 years old. He died peacefully at St. Paul's Hospital, holding the hands of his three children. In the preceding week many tears and laughs were shared. He had amazing talks with his kids about everything from health to life choices. He had accepted the devastating effects of his illness and was ready for his next journey.
Michael was one of seven children and was a bit of a surprise for his mom and dad. He grew up with a lot of "parenting" siblings and was closer in age to his nieces and nephews. However, Mom was thrilled to have finally gotten a "tall one". Many will remember him as a carefree, happy-go-lucky guy with a ready smile. Michael grew up in the Comox Valley where he learned his appreciation for caring and helping others along with his love of outdoor pursuits. Summers were spent boating on the Dyne, fishing, prawning, crabbing and exploring the islands of Desolation Sound. He graduated from Georges P. Vanier in 1986, his Dad's last year as principal. He went to University of Victoria and earned a Bachelor of Science in 1995. While a student at UVic he was a member of the varsity rowing team and represented Canada at the FISU games.
Michael married Susan Reid and started a family shortly after, welcoming Sophia in 2001, Reid in 2003, and Jasmine in 2005. Great family times were had surfing, sailing, and exploring nature. His kids were inspired by his active lifestyle. Mike was always up for an adventure be it road biking, mountain biking, rock climbing, surfing or scuba diving.
Mike leaves his brothers Ed (Carol), Charlie (Jennifer) and Richard (Cheryl) and sisters Marian Duke (Dave), Diana, and Elodie Geneau (Mike) devastated to lose their baby brother. He also leaves many nieces and nephews who regarded Mike as a brother rather than an uncle.
We would like to thank the staff in the Palliative Care Unit at St. Paul's who cared for Mike during the final stage of his illness. In lieu of flowers a contribution to an education fund for Mike's children would be very much appreciated.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/mike-schellinck-kids-education?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1