Michael Patrick Lauriente

Michael Patrick Lauriente was born in Trail, BC to Erena and Amerigo (Tomas) Lauriente on November 18, 1937.

He grew up in Trail, where he developed lifelong passions for both Hockey and music. As a young man he played saxophone in his school band and the Trail City Band, and could often be found on the ice, a place which always brought him joy.

He attended the University of British Columbia, where he proudly played competitive hockey for the UBC Thunderbirds. After transferring to the University of Victoria, he earned his degree in Education and later completed his Master’s degree – achievements that reflected his deep belief in learning and the importance of education.

Michael met and married the love of his life, Jeanette Emma Ronald, and together they built a life grounded in family, community, and dedication to others. He began his teaching career in Castlegar BC, where he quickly became a respected educator and an active member of the community, coaching minor hockey and serving in the rotary club. Michael and Jeanette raised their three sons there and created a home filled with support, encouragement and strong values.

While he loved teaching, Mike felt called to make an even broader impact on students’ lives. Through hard work and the respect of his colleagues, he advanced from Vice Principal to Principal, then Director of Instruction in the Castlegar School District. He later fulfilled his professional goal when he became Superintendent of Schools in Creston, serving there for five years. In 1992, he accepted a superintendent role in the Okanagan so he could be closer to family – something that always mattered most to him.

After retiring in 1997, Mike moved to the lower mainland, where he fully embraced his favorite roles: husband, father and especially grandfather. He treasured time with his grandchildren, loved summers at Christina Lake, and remained a devoted Vancouver Canucks fan. For more that a decade he rarely missed a home game with his sons, always hopeful that “this would be the year.”

Mike will be remembered for this quiet strength, steady leadership, deep commitment to education, and unwavering love for his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jeanette; his three sons Ronald, Leonard, and Spencer (Marie); his cherished grandchildren Michael, Christina, Jake, Ty, Josh, Evan; his sister-in-law Laurena Catalano; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and former colleagues whose lives he touched.

Micheal passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026.