Obituary of Mike Malerba

Obituary of Michele (Mike) Malerba

July 4, 1950 – May 22, 2024

Peacefully and surrounded by his family, on May 22, 2024, it is with everlasting love and broken hearts that we announce the passing of a one-of-a-kind man, father, husband and nonno, Michele (Mike) Malerba, at the age of 73.

Mike was the cherished husband of 52 years to Giovanna (Joanne).  He was adored by his children, Emily (Eric Sorrentino) and Mark.  Treasured by his grandchildren, Michael, Giuliana, Luca and Mila.  Survived by his mother-in-law, Maria Palladino, and his sister-in-law, Ines Ciccone.  Mike will be greatly missed by his nephews, Adriano (Rossella) and Fernando (Francesca), his cousin, Maddalena (Antonio Clemente), along with his extended family and friends in Argentina, Australia, Italy, Switzerland, USA and other parts of Canada.  He is predeceased by his parents, Leonardo and Emilia, his brother, Antonio, and his father-in-law, Valentino Palladino.  

Born in Carpinone, Isernia, Italy, Mike immigrated to Canada in 1969 with nothing more than a suitcase, guitar (which he didn’t know how to play), a few dollars and unable to speak a word of English. After working as a patient porter and cleaner, Mike took a leap of faith and together with Joanne, launched a new business.  In 1980, Metropolitan Maintenance was born.  Through an incredible amount of hard work, determination and integrity, the company grew into a pillar of the London business community – a well-respected and successful janitorial service icon that is now owned and operated by his children.

Mike was first and foremost a family man.  His family was the centre of his world. Mike adored his wife, took great pride in the successes of his children and cherished his latest role of Nonno.  Never more than a phone call away, he checked in on the eve of a big event, important exam or after a tough day.  He delighted in celebrating joyful moments with the entire family.  Always greeted warmly and welcomed into his home, Mike would be seen with a smile on his face when cooking one of his famous meals, gardening in the backyard, fishing with his grandchildren and venturing on an excursion, near or far. He was multi-talented, generous, resilient, and inspiring, leaving an incredible legacy that is larger than life.

With a heart of gold, Mike volunteered his time and supported countless local charities and non-profit organizations over the years.  He was a trusted and loyal friend, respectful of and respected by his industry peers, someone who always had time to lend an ear or share a wise word. But most importantly, he was a loving husband, father and nonno who would move mountains to ensure the well-being and happiness of his loved ones.

A visitation for Mike will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street, London.  The funeral Mass will take place on Friday, May 31, 2024 at 11:00am at St. Mary’s Parish, 345 Lyle Street, London.  A private family interment will be held at St. Peter’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Lung Association, Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre would be appreciated.

Life will not be the same without you.  We will miss you forever.  Ti vogliamo bene assai, assai, assai, per sempre ❤️