Word has reached us of the passing of John “Michael” Grant, May 6, 2021 at the age of 74 following his second battle with cancer.

Part of the Grant Brothers Sales family, in 1970 Michael Grant joined the organization founded by his late father Frank and identical twin brother John Grant Sr. This was the start of a 30-year career with GBS as a leading manufacturer’s agency in the automotive, hardware, heavy duty and leisure divisions across Canada selling to accounts such as Canadian Tire, Walmart, Home Depot, Automotive Warehouse Distributors and leading jobbers.

Known as a visionary, and innovative thinker, Michael Grant would continue to pursue creative projects independently following his retirement.

Born in Montreal on January 2, 1947 to his late parents Frank and Lois (McGuire) Grant, Michael moved to Calgary as a young boy and then onto Moore Park in Toronto. He attended OLPH for elementary school and St. Michael’s College School before heading to the University of Waterloo graduating with a degree in English and History, while playing golf and hockey throughout that time. Michael married his high school sweetheart Carla McConvey (Bannock) in 1970. Settling in Unionville, they had their four beautiful children. 

His passing comes after a long series of medical challenges. In 2009 he suffered a serious stroke that presented the challenge of having to relearn basic activities such as how to speak.

A subsequent challenge came with his first cancer diagnosis but even that did not dampen his spirit and although he was unable to continue to golf, a sport he loved deeply, he turned his attention to table tennis and became, by all accounts, a formidable opponent.

He overcame that first battle with cancer but a second bout eventually took him.

Michael will be deeply missed by his children Dana (Craig), Andrew (Carly), Ashley (Matthew) and his late daughter Georgia. Adored Grandpa who told the funniest jokes and taught the best magic tricks to Charley, Graydon, Everett, Ainsley, London, Maryn, Cecilia and Benjamin. Treasured brother to Judith, Tom (Eric), Barbara (Rick), Shelagh (David) and his late siblings Janice, Brian and Kenneth (Paula). Unforgettable uncle to his many nieces and nephews. 

If desired, donations in memory of Michael may be made to the Cardiac Unit at SickKids Hospital or The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. A celebration of life will take place virtually or in person once it is safe to do so. Donations and condolences may be made through www.ecofuneral.ca