Mike Mori passing

[johnb]

I am deeply saddened to report that Mike Mori passed away this afternoon. He had been battling cancer for just over one year.

Mike was a competitor in Formula 1200, Ontario Challenge Cup and GT Sprints for just a few years but made many new friends during that time. While a relatively new competitor, he was passionate about cars and motorsports for most of his life. If he wasn't competitively racing, he might be spectating or taking another professional racing school. Or sometimes he would be jumping out of an airplane from 10000 feet.

Mike worked very hard for his clients but took the time out to enjoy life with his family and friends. He was also quick to share a hockey, basketball game or dinner. I will miss going for the "duck." (his favourite dish at a particular chinese restaurant)

It should be noted that he personally provide the cash prize fund for races at Shannonville in 2002.

Our thoughts go out to his wife Lillian, and children, Andrea and Ian.

A service will be held later this week.

[karlt]

It's been said that when one's legacy is the difference you make in other people's lives when you're here. Mike Mori was enthusiastic about so many things in life it's hard to imagine how he was able to be involved in so much. Racing was something he was passionate about and his love of the sport was infectious.

In the few years we were pals, Mike managed to help me find my first professional ride (in a Miata he had driven earlier in the year), and encouraged me to pursue my dream of running a team. Singlehandedly, Mike changed my life. And I know that I'm one of many, many people he touched in this way.

My friend, you're sorely missed. Godspeed.

_k_

PS - Mike's funeral service is Thursday Sept 9 at 1pm at Ward's Funeral Home, 2035 Weston Road. Visitation is Tues 7th and Wed 8th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.

[rmicroys]

Mike and I took the HRC driving school 3 seasons ago and started our career as racers that season. The first race weekend of that year (the one with the snow storm) the two of us novices battled it out at the front of GTD for the lead. Mike pursued me relentlessly. Many times that race we were side by side going in to various corners, each time I managed to out-brake him in to 8 – but I could not hold him off. He eventually got by me; muscling his Civic past me down the front straight - but not before both of us broke out (with what we considered scintillating lap times in the 1m45s range) and we handed the win to Greg Chan. I will never forget that race, and I have a lovely set of photographs from a friend who was at Corner 5 snapping away each time we came by. As I look back, it still is the best race I have ever had. He was always a gentleman and I saw nothing but smiles from Mike. I will always remember.

Mike, you will be missed.