Margaree Forks
It is with deep sorrow and boundless love that we announce the passing of Michael Melski of Nova Scotia. A son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, Michael’s life was rich with creativity, compassion, and a fierce love for the people and places that shaped him.
Born and raised in Cape Breton, Michael’s heart was always anchored in Margaree. Its river, hills, and skies were more than scenery—they were part of his soul. He returned there often, seeking peace, clarity, and inspiration.
Michael attended King’s College, where he developed his talents as a writer and formed lifelong friendships. A gifted storyteller, his work on stage and screen reflected his sharp wit and deep humanity. He was known not only for his art, but for his loyalty, generosity, and irreverent humour.
His plays—including Hockey Mom, Hockey Dad, The Fly Fisher’s Companion, and Miles from Home—toured internationally and touched audiences with their honesty and heart. His films, such as Growing Op, Charlie Zone, and The Child Remains, showcased his range and cinematic eye. Michael also worked in television and directed acclaimed documentaries, including Perfume War and Rare Bird Alert. He was a graduate of the Canadian Film Centre and an artist-in-residence at several respected theatres.
Michael was a lifelong fly-fisherman, golfer, trivia buff, late-blooming guitarist, and passionate Leafs fan. He restored his family’s Margaree cabin with his own hands, naming it Metanoia—a sanctuary of memory, laughter, and love.
Michael is survived by his devoted siblings, Sandra (Tony) Long, Anne Marie (Scott) Kerr, and Chris (Karen) Melski; beloved nieces and nephews, Hannah, Kaia, Kinley, and Tony; and extended family and friends who became like family. He was predeceased by his parents, Mary (Dezagiacomo) and Bernie Melski, and his grandparents.
A special mention goes to Maggie, a loyal four-legged companion.
Michael, thank you for the stories, the humour, the love. May you rest where the river runs clear, and the winds of Margaree sing you to sleep.
There will be no visitation for the late Michael Melski. A private family memorial service will take place.
Donations in memory of Michael may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
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My deepest condolences to the family and extended family of Michael and hugs to Maggie; Be assured of my prayers for all of you. Rest in Peace, Michael. Job well done.
Michael was a generous writing teacher and mentor. I am grateful for his kindness and support; he not only made me a stronger writer, he also showed me how to be a better teacher by thinking about how storytelling works. I often tell my students what I learned from him. I am so grateful for his wisdom, attention, and the generous use of his time, and terribly sad to hear of his passing.
To his family, I am so very sorry for your loss. He is missed.
I wish to give the sincere condolences for my family the Whites to Michael’s family. He was a true believer in the film industry and it was proud to work with him on my future film Charles Zone, he knew how to bring out the best in the cast and I am proud of him And his legacy loved and missed Hank and Emmie White
I am saddened to hear of Michael’s passing, my deepest condolences to Sandra, Anne Marie and Chris and rest of the Melski and Dezagiacomo families. May he Rest In Eternal Peace.
Michael and I passed many the hour on a bar stool at the Shoe Shop and many the hour just chatting on the phone or online. He was funny, smart, kind, sweet, generous, talented and an all around wonderful human. I want to pick up the phone right now and call him. Damn. I am going to miss our talks. Sending love to all of you who are going to want to share a glass or pick up the phone and call him for years to come.