June 10, 1938 – April 21, 2020

Michael Macchiagodena passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 in Montreal at the age of 81. He died peacefully in his sleep, after a courageous fight to keep his Parkinson’s Disease at bay for many years.

Michael was born on June 10, 1938 to Luigi Macchiagodena and Anna Di Lullo in Victoriaville, Quebec. He is survived by his son Michael (Irene), his daughter Laura, his two grandchildren, Steven and Sandra, his brother Dominic (Louise), as well as nieces and nephews who remember him fondly.

Michael received his Master’s Degree in Education from McGill University while he rose to the rank of Director General of the Montreal Catholic School Commission. He was later appointed to the position of Director General of Vanier College for several terms, working well past retirement age.

Michael was a passionate educator and academic defined as a tireless champion of English education in Quebec. He achieved his successes through his many skills among which were strategic planning, collaboration, diplomacy and advocacy. Simply put, he loved his work and was rightfully proud of his career. He completely embodied his role as an educator. No calling could have befit him more.

Passion for his work was almost rivalled by his two favourite pastimes: playing the piano and rooting for his beloved Canadiens de Montréal. He continued to play the piano right to the end, despite the mobility challenges caused by his illness. True to form, he stubbornly refused to let it interfere with performing and lifting the spirits of members in his community. He was always eager to use his talent to entertain those around him. As an avid Habs fan, again, he followed them until the very end. In doing so, his pride shone through as a Montrealer, a Quebecer, a Canadian and not least of all, as a kid from Victoriaville, Quebec, “The place where they make the famous hockey sticks,” as he would proudly proclaim at every opportunity.

In these restrictive times, the memorial service for Michael must be set for a later date, when we will be allowed to gather to celebrate his life. Time and date of the funeral service will be posted on the website of the Collins Clarke MacGilvray White Funeral Home at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/9145673

To view and sign the guestbook, visit https://montrealgazette.remembering.ca/obituary/michael-macchiagodena-1079069128