About the Department

GRIESDORF, Michael - It is with the greatest and most heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael Griesdorf, after a sudden epileptic seizure. Beloved son of Jane and Gary Griesdorf, loving brother of Wendy Griesdorf and Jonathan Rowe. He will be forever loved and missed by his uncle Norman Griesdorf and aunt Jeniva Berger, his aunt and uncle Wilma and Monte Kwinter and all of his many cousins, who adored him. Michael was a most accomplished young man. He received his undergraduate degree from Princeton University and his PhD from Harvard University in International Relations. He used his exceptional education and brilliance to serve others, joining the United Nations Department of Peace Keeping Operations, working in the Congo's most dangerous and desolate areas in their efforts to help bring stability to the region. Upon his return he continued his work with the U.N. in New York City, a city he loved passionately, and was looking forward to furthering his work with his colleagues there.  Accolades of his love of humanity, his warmth, and his generosity of spirit are giving his family courage. He will be forever in our hearts. Funeral services at Holy Blossom Temple, 1950 Bathurst Street (south of Eglinton) on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 12:30 p.m. Interment Holy Blossom Memorial Park. Due to the festival of Sukkot and Simcha Torah, shiva will commence Sunday evening October 11th with services at 8:00 p.m. at 55 Prince Arthur Avenue. Shiva will continue at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 12th, and conclude at 5:00 p.m., so that the family can attend evening services at Holy Blossom Temple. Donations may be made to the Michael Griesdorf Memorial Fund c/o The Benjamin Foundation, 3429 Bathurst Street, Toronto, M6A 2C3, 416-780-0324, www.benjamins.ca. Donations will be directed to the following charities, UNICEF and Holy Blossom Temple Rose Window Restoration Fund.

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