MICHAEL A. SMEDLEY December 29, 1937 - January 1, 2024

Born in Melton Mowbray, England, Michael Allan Smedley passed away peacefully, at St. Michael's Hospital as a result of heart complications, with his loving partner, Shenaz Modi, by his side. Michael was predeceased by his parents, Elsie and Allan Smedley; as well as his sister, Norma and her husband, Arthur Francis. He is survived by his loving niece, Tracy Francis.

Michael lived a full life that included captivating stories of his adventures, his love of reading, his quick wit and his love to laugh. After high school, Michael pursued a career as a journalist for a local Midlands newspaper, where he was able to develop his investigative skills that would ultimately be applied to his future career as an investor and fund manager. After six years of working for the local Midlands newspaper, Michael jetted off to Africa, where he worked in Tanzania for approximately five years. Ever eager to work, learn new skills and develop his career, Michael eventually worked in a number of countries, including South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, as well as Canada and back to the UK.

From journalism to public relations, he moved into the financial sector in the mid-1970s. In 1987, he returned to Toronto to work for Morgan Meighen & Associates, a small but prestigious investment firm founded by Maxwell Meighen and his father, the Right Honourable Arthur Meighen, known for its long-standing closed-end fund, Canadian General Investments and private wealth management. Michael assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer in 1995, where he held the position until 2012 and continued to work as Chief Investment Officer until his retirement in late 2022.

Michael had many loves. Besides reading - sometimes up to seven different newspapers a day, collecting unique cars, and swimming daily, he and Shenaz truly enjoyed their quiet home life. Michael was a kind man who gave generously, but who preferred anonymity. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make a donation to a charity of your choice in memory of Michael.

Please feel free to drop by The National Club, 300 Bay Street, Toronto, on Tuesday, January 16th between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. to raise a glass in honour of Michael and share your favourite anecdote.

Published by The Globe and Mail from Jan. 10 to Jan. 14, 2024.