Michael Arthur SOLBY

Michael Arthur SOLBY

SOLBY, Michael Arthur Michael Arthur Solby died peacefully at St. Michael’s hospital in Toronto on June 11, 2018 at the age of 80.

He is survived by his loving wife Beverlee and his three sons Paul (Geni), Marc (Carolyn) and Bruno (Sheila) as well as grandchildren Robert, Maggie, Kalli, Hannah, Jackson and Sienna. Michael was born in New York on August 19, 1938 as the only child of Austrian immigrants Dr. J. Bruno Solby and Gertrude (Trudy) Konigstein. He attended the elite Manhattan public school Bronx High School of Science in anticipation of becoming a physician like his father.

Instead, he found his passion in an acting class at the University of Vermont and went on to study drama at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, England. Later in life, he returned to his original desire to contribute as a healthcare practitioner and attended the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education where earned a Doctor of Education Psychology Counselling (Ed.D). He was also a Diplomate in the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and The National Centre for Crisis Management.

He went on to a long second career as a psychotherapist and counselled many grateful clients until his recent illness. Michael, known as ‘Fluffy’ to friends and family as a result of his signature beard, was an avid Brooklyn Dodger fan from yesteryear, loved to garden, spend time with family and friends – especially his grandchildren and relished his daily Double Doubles from Tim Horton’s.

We shall all miss his broad smile, hearty laugh and warm hugs. Our family invites those who wish to join us in celebrating Michael’s life to drop in on Monday, June 18th between 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. at the Solby residence (Kingsway Condominiums, 2855 Bloor Street West, Toronto – event room main floor). Donations can made to St. John Ambulance Therapy Dogs, Toronto Pack at torontotherapy dogs@on.sja.ca To make online condolences please visit basicfunerals.ca