After a hard fought two year battle, Michael passed away at home with his family at his side on Monday, March 11, 2024 at the age of 73. He was the best friend/partner in crime/ love of her life to Teresa “Teri” (Brooks) Bloch for 48 years. The very best dad to Erin Bloch, and Lindsay Bloch-Pupulin and Matthew Pupulin. Abundantly proud “Boppa” to Evan and also the late Toby who had been waiting to reunite since 2021. Also survived by his step-grandchildren Sebastian
and Jack. Dear brother and brother-in-law of David and Debby Block of North Carolina, Ellen and Steve Parker of Ottawa and Paul Brooks of London. Much loved uncle of Edward, Andrew and Katie Brooks, Jeremy and Irit Block, Daniel and Sarah-Jain Block, and Mitchell Parker. He will be missed by his many great nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his sister-in-law Ina Brooks.
Michael facilitated the gift of life, not only in his 40 year long role with the Organ & Tissue Donation and Transplantation team but also in the lives of all of those he knew and loved. Michael would go to the ends of the earth to ensure that a patient might receive the organ they so desperately needed but also never missed a chance to show those in his circle that he had their back and he could be counted upon. The world is a better place because of Michael Bloch and he will be missed by many.
All are invited to celebrate the life of this remarkable man at London International Airport Bay #4, 2450 Blair Boulevard, London on Sunday, April 21st from 12-3 PM with words of remembrance at 1PM.
In true Michael fashion, the Bloch family would kindly ask those wishing to make memorial donation to consider supporting the Lithgow family by visiting https://www.gofundme.com/f/kucut-in-memory-of-an-amazing-man to learn about their story and to donate. Cremation & Celebrations entrusted with arrangements.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Arthur Scoular says
My most sincere condolences to Terri and family for their loss. I have many fond memories of the transplant team parties as well as the “Spare Parts” team in the UH Slow Pitch league.
I especially appreciated Michael’s’ moving tribute to my wife Nancy at the UH tribute to her in 2011. Mike will be missed.
Gaye Hongisto says
We knew ‘Mike’ for only a few short years after he and family moved to our neighborhood. We watched his family go through several tragedies. Throughout it all, Mike was always ready to lend a generous hand with a cheerful smile. He is missed.
With sincere sympathy,
Gaye and Raymond Hongisto
Angie and Cal Stiller says
Michael Bloch was a generous and noble man who worked tirelessly on the Transplant Team at University Hospital for decades where I was privileged to know him and love him. There was no effort too great and no problem too daunting to deter Michael from giving his all to accomplish them. Our thoughts are with Terri and Lindsay and all the members of his family. Celebrate his life because his life merited a celebration in gratitude for all he did for others. Thank you Michael. You were loved by many.
Heather Bedford says
I worked in the Transplant Unit years ago and knew and admired Michael for his dedication to the vital work he did. He was a very caring person. I was sad to learn of his passing and I want to convey my sincere sympathy to his family and friends.
Myles Cohen says
Our 2nd cousin. He spent a few summers in his teens at our family dairy, The Clover Dairy in Torrington Connecticut. My mother, Anne Glick Cohen, and his mom Esther were first cousins and were very close from their youth. I think Michael is the first member of my generation from the Rimer part of the family tree to pass. Rest in peace Michael. We’ve not been in touch for quite a while but I will always have the fondest memories of you, your parents and siblings and may all of your children and grandchildren find the strength to find peace. Love. Myles Cohen
Norma Markel Butterfield says
Michael and his family were next door neighbours on Grenier Ave in the Snowden area of Montreal. I was a couple of years older than Michael and watched him grow up from a very young child until adulthood. I was a constant visitor in his home as I was close to his parents and family. We, as children, “played together” and held plays in his backyard for our parents. Michael was always pleasant and a joy to know. I send my deepest condolences to Teri, David, Ellen and all their families.
May Michael’s memory be a blessing.
Linda Goldman says
Michael and I met in Israel . I was 18 he was 21 . We dated he went to Western in London Ontario . My Uncle went to Medical School there . We live in Michigan and Florida . Michael came many times to Michigan . I went to Montreal . He was an amazing person . Everyone in our family loved him . He will truly be missed ! We are so sorry for your loss . May his memory be a blessing . Linda Wolfe Goldman .
kelly Gilchrist says
Micheal was a very kind and caring soul. I am so lucky to have met and worked with this wonderful man. Please accept my condolences.
Peace be with you at this difficult time.
Kelly Gilchrist
Kim-Chi says
My thoughts with your family Michael. You were alway so friendly and hard working. A welcoming friend in the operating room.
I worked with him when I was a resident, and he was always ready to help me with a research project adventure! He also gave me my first Christmas ornament, which I still have today. I am so lucky to have known and worked with him, even if it was for a short while. He will be missed.
Melinda Grant says
Michael and I worked together for many years in the Transplant world. He was always so kind. He was always willing to help, to teach, to offer support and even bring muffins in the weeks hours of the morning. Many a lives were saved because of his dedication to his work. He would work long, long, long hours flying all over Gods green earth to make it happen. I also had the privilege of looking after Toby in my nursing career. I can just imagine the antics going on in heaven right now. Sending you much love.
Melinda Grant says
I worked for many years with Michael as an organ and tissue donor coordinator. He was always willing to help, teach, support….and bring a snack in the wee hours of the morning. He would work unbelievable stretches of time flying all over God’s green earth to make donation possible. He was a good friend. You will be missed. I can just imagine the antics in heaven with Toby and Michael. I also had the privilege of caring for that sweet boy. Warm hugs
Marion Wood says
Dear Ones:
It has been our privilege to have known Michael and Teri for the past 28 years and subsequently, their family. Words seem inadequate to describe and pay tribute to the incredible man Michael was, the full life he lived and the accolade of achievements earned during his career and beyond. He was a respected and dedicated health professional , tirelessly advocating for his patients. On the home front he passionately loved and cherished his family.
We have very fond memories of being entertained at the Bloch home on many social occasions where they were genuinely gracious hosts. We’ve shared the highs and lows of our life’s paths and always felt supported by this compassionate couple.
Michael faced his lengthy and relentless illness with cancer with grace, hope, resilience and a positive attitude. He was so blessed to have the constant love and care of his family throughout his journey.
At this time of profound loss, please know we love you and are praying for you all.
May the knowledge of the countless lives he positively touched and the marvelous legacy he leaves behind bring you strength, comfort and peace.
God bless,
Alan and Marion Wood
Tania Admans says
Michael was one of the first people I met and worked with when I moved to London working at western. He was a great mentor, funny, and offered awesome friendship. I’m so sorry for your loss of this amazing man. May you keep and cherish all of the memories he gave you.