The legal community is mourning the sudden passing of Michael Silver (1960-2024), a lawyer and mediator who significantly shaped the practice of mediation in Ontario. Silver passed away on the morning of Nov. 4, leaving behind a legacy in conflict resolution and environmental advocacy.
Born in Toronto, Silver spent part of his childhood in Buffalo before returning to Canada. He pursued higher education at the University of Western Ontario and furthered his studies at Cambridge University. He began his career as a lawyer but found his true calling in mediation. Recognized as a pioneer of mediation in Ontario, he dedicated over three decades to helping parties entrenched in deep conflict find common ground and achieve mutually beneficial settlements.
Silver’s approach to mediation was marked by exceptional empathy and a deep understanding of complex issues. His ability to facilitate solutions not only resolved disputes but also set new standards in the field. His work greatly influenced the integration of mediation into Ontario’s legal system, making alternative dispute resolution a viable and often preferred option in employment and human resources conflicts.
Beyond his professional achievements, he was a passionate defender of the environment. He led the effort to create the Torrance Barrens Conservation Reserve and Dark Sky Preserve, showcasing his commitment to preserving natural spaces. His leadership extended to committees dedicated to the management and protection of these areas. An active advocate on climate change, Silver frequently engaged with policymakers, penned insightful letters, and championed environmental causes with the same fervor he brought to his legal work.
His zest for life was evident in his numerous personal pursuits. An avid traveler, he visited over 98 countries, embracing diverse cultures and experiences. He was also a distinguished collector, amassing a world-class art collection, rare fossils, meteorites, antique furniture dating back to the 1600s, and rare Canadian coins. His enthusiasm for sharing these treasures with others reflected his generous spirit and gregarious nature.
He is survived by his long-time partner Naomi, his ex-wife Sandy, his children Alexandra and Jeremy, his brother Seth and sister-in-law Sue, his father Harvey, and a loving extended family that includes step-siblings, nieces, nephews, and step-children. Silver was also a devoted grandfather, affectionately known as “Saba,” whose joy in family life was palpable.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Muskoka Conservancy (www.muskokaconservancy.org/donate) in Michael’s memory, ensuring that his legacy of environmental stewardship endures.
Funeral and Shiva Details:
- Funeral Service: Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 4:00 PM at Benjamin’s Park Memorial Chapel.
- Interment Service: Friday, November 8, at 12:00 noon at Torrance Cemetery, 1026 East Bay Road, Torrance, Ontario P0C 1M0.
- Shiva: The family will gather in Muskoka following the interment service on Friday. Shiva visits will begin Saturday evening from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and continue on Sunday and Monday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 355 St. Clair Ave. West, #1806, Toronto, Ontario, M5P 1N5. Evening services will be held at 8:00 PM. Shiva concludes on Monday evening, November 11.
