Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 12:00 a.m.
Mike Kensley
1959 – 2025
Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Pat; his three daughters: Chiyoko (Andrew), Crystal (Brent), and Michelle (Paul); stepchildren: Riley, Paul, and Jenelle; and grandchildren: Arora, Mia, Noa and Kobe. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Clayton (Colleen), Dean (Sandy), Anita (Rheal), David, Mary Debra, Dan (Delphine), Ray and Laura (Dave), as well as numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Pat; his three daughters: Chiyoko (Andrew), Crystal (Brent), and Michelle (Paul); stepchildren: Riley, Paul, and Jenelle; and grandchildren: Arora, Mia, Noa and Kobe. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Clayton (Colleen), Dean (Sandy), Anita (Rheal), David, Mary Debra, Dan (Delphine), Ray and Laura (Dave), as well as numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
He was predeceased by his parents Clayton and Yvonne Kensley.
Mike was born in Sarnia, Ontario on September 28th, 1959, the fourth born of nine children. As a child, “little Mikey” excelled at sports and was the athletic one in the family, he particularly loved playing soccer. As an adult, he moved out to the west coast with an adventurous spirit, finding employment at Vancouver General Hospital. After many years, he relocated to Lethbridge, Alberta, where he found his passion working as an Educational Assistant in the schools, where his “larger than life” personality could be seen in every interaction.
In 2007, Mike married Pat and together they enjoyed many years of travelling and exploring the world. Among some of their greatest adventures was the Great Wall of China, whale watching in Alaska, and swimming with the turtles in Hawaii. You could always find them sharing a laugh with good friends at local coffee shops, where Mike would always be the jokester in the crowd. They became avid campers, a love that they shared with their grandchildren. Mike had a love for muscle cars, shooting pool and listening to rock music.
Mike’s love for Pat, his children, and grandchildren was the highlight of his life. Known for his kind spirit and gentle heart, he found great pride and fulfillment in his family. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, spending time at family BBQs and exploring nature with his grandchildren.
Mike always went the extra mile to stay in contact and show his love to his family and friends. Even as his health started to decline, you could always count on receiving multiple calls from him to brighten your day. He had a one-of-a-kind sense of humour and ability to bring a smile to everyone’s face. His resilient spirit shone brightly through every challenge, leaving an indelible mark of strength, love, and grace on all who knew him. Mike’s famous saying was “Beep Squack Boogity Boo. What’s up with you?” His impersonations of Michael Jackson’s dance moves became a signature move of his and you could depend on him to keep the party going.
A true lover of life, Mike had a remarkable gift for bringing people together, often filling any room with warmth, laughter, and a good story. His playful banter and infectious laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, the lessons he imparted- resilience in adversity and the power of laughter to lift the soul- will continue to guide and inspire us every day. Mike’s memory will live on in every joke, every smile, and every courageous step we take forward. Like a free bird, Dad, you’ve spread your wings and are no longer bound by struggle. You’re soaring in peace now, and though we’ll miss you, we find comfort knowing you’re finally free.
We would like to extend a special thank you to his wife, Pat, for her unwavering selfless love that she has shown our Father.
A Celebration of Mike’s life will be held at WESTMINSTER COMMUNITY HALL, 411 – 16 Street North, Lethbridge, AB, on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Guestbook (10)
Share a memory or send a tribute in memory of Mike.
I am so sorry to hear of Mikes passing. I have some fabulous memories of the few years I was blessed to work by Mikes side at Churchill. Mike was always so proud of his family, I enjoyed running into him throughout the years and hear his stories. Mike, our skies are brighter with your beautiful addition to the stars. God bless Mikes family and friends through this difficult time.
Pat I am very sorry to hear of Mike's passing. We always enjoyed Mike's stories, he was a great neighbor. Sending prayers to all of you.
Pat, I am so sorry that your adventure with Mike has come to an end. May God comfort you and give you strength. So happy to hear that you have enjoyed many vacations together and made some beautiful memories. May those memories comfort you.
Pat, Chiyoko, Crystal, Michelle and families we send our thoughts and care. As you know, Mike had a big heart, always acknowledging us. We could count on a story and a laugh and leaving with the warmth he offered. We are better for having known him. Thinking of you and holding you close at this time. Kathy & Michelle
Very sorry to see Michael’s passing. Crystal you may remember me, when he had a broken ankle I was able to offer you and your Dad a home on the north side leaving your basement apartment. Michael was a person who stuck to his word and made me proud to have helped him out. Michael was always friendly whenever we met in town. I was happy for him to progress in life. So sorry for your family’s loss.
Crystal, this tribute to your Father is absolutely wonderful! It speaks of your love and your families love for him! You are in our thoughts!
I am grateful to have known Mike, he always had me smiling and laughing and trying to one-up his humour. I am grateful to have known him and his family. Cho, Crystal and Michelle my heart breaks for your loss. Your Dad was really cool. I love you all.
Dear Pat, Chiyoko, Crystal, & Michelle, and families, I am so very sorry for the loss of Mike. He was an amazing, warm person who lived life to the fullest. He brightened my life, as I know he did the lives of many, many people. I can hear his voice booming out a friendly greeting to me as I read your tribute to him. You are all in my thoughts at this sad time and I’m sending you lots of love. Mary
Uncle Mike was an amazing soul he could always make us laugh no matter what and he always came in to the room with a huge smile . He was very loved by our whole family and will be dearly missed. You will always be with us uncle Mike . Love you always
So sorry to hear of your loss Mrs Kensley. Thinking of you in this difficult time