Mike “Coolie” Kukulewich

Adapted from condolence motion at August 2000 City of Toronto Council Meeting
(Moved by Councillor Walker; seconded by Councillor Korwin-Kuczynski)

Michael Kukulewich died suddenly on July 16, 2000. Mike (or “Coolie” to his friends and those he coached) was actively involved in community life in South Eglinton where he lived all his life.

Coolie worked at Canada Post where he was a strong unionist fighting for the little guy. He effectively fought for his community, often making life difficult for politicians and bureaucrats at all three levels of government. He owned many race horses over the years and he instilled his passion for this sport in his family and many of his friends.

Michael’s passion for life and irreverent disregard for authority infected all those who knew and loved him. His deepest love of all were his wife Laurie and his two children Rachel and John.

Coolie’s friend and “Rip-Off” co-star Peter Gross produced a video obituary - testifying to Coolie’s love for his family and horses.

Coolie, interviewed with Rachel, is also remembered in a segment from the 1995 video “Leaside High School: The First 50 Years”.