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MICHAEL T. OLITO
Date of Passing: Apr 25, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryMICHAEL T. OLITO
On April 25, 2025, Michael Thomas Olito passed away at the age of 83, after a battle with Parkinson’s.
He will always be remembered by his wife of 55 years, Verla, his sisters, Jennifer Olito and Margaret Smith (Robert), and numerous nieces and nephews.
Michael was born in England on March 25. 1942. In August of 1945 he travelled via banana boat, with his sister, Jennifer, and his mother, to the MacGregor area, to join his father, a Canadian veteran, on the farm. He grew up there and attended school in MacGregor.
At an early age, Michael displayed a great interest in art, and was always creating “things” well outside the bounds of just pictures. He was also interested in various sports, both as a participant and a spectator.
After high school, he attended Teachers’ College and ventured into the world of teaching for a few years until he returned to school at the University of Manitoba and received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
Michael avidly pursued his art career. He will be remembered for his various art projects: building a wooden helicopter and “flying” it from the Legislature to the WAG; Building a ferry across the LaSalle River; performing a one man show at the WAG.
Michael shared his passion for his art with his passion for horse racing. For many years he and Verla owned horses, training and running them at Assiniboia Downs.
Michael will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered by not only his family but also his many friends.
Mike will be remembered Monday, May 19 at the Howden Community Centre, 1078 Red River Drive at 5:00 p.m.
Publish Date: May 17, 2025
MICHAEL T. OLITO
On April 25, 2025, Michael Thomas Olito passed away at the age of 83, after a battle with Parkinson’s.
Mike will be remembered Monday, May 19 at the Howden Community Centre, 1078 Red River Drive at 5:00 p.m.
Publish Date: May 10, 2025
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 10, 2025, May 17, 2025
Condolences & Memories (3 entries)
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Verla, Jennifer, Margaret and Families, I have just learned of Michael’s passing. I am thinking of you and am very sorry for your loss. May many happy memories be of comfort at this difficult time. My sincere sympathy and hugs to all of you. - Posted by: Bev MacDonald (Friend) on: May 17, 2025
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Mr. Olito was my teacher for English in grade 7 I believe. I always remember his love for art. He would teach his lesson, sit down and start drawing. Such a big man he would sit down and pull the desk towards him instead of pulling himself to the desk. Through the years I enjoyed watching his pieces of art show up around the City. His creativity and insight provoked thinking and I always appreciated that. Mr. Olito is someone who brings a smile to the face when he is thought of. Sincere condolences. - Posted by: Brenda romaniuk (Student) on: May 17, 2025
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Mr. Olito was one of our most memorable teachers in elementary school in Riverton in the 60’s. Had hoped to see him again at our reunion this year. My sympathies to his family. - Posted by: Susie Eyolfson (Teacher) on: May 17, 2025