Condolence: I first met Mr. Mitanoff in grade 4 at Sharon Public School. He was in charge of teaching students the recorder. He inspired us to learn to play first by learning fingerings of the notes and then learning rhythms as he played along with us on his accordion. We formed the Recorder Orchestra and he took us performing on a regular basis to bring joy to elderly in care facilities. Later he was my Grade 6 teacher and I will never forget that class. Mr. Mitanoff held our attention in so many ways in every subject. He would spend hours at a time enriching our standard educational tasks with stories and history and humorous anecdotes. I can still hear the laughter and delight of all of us in that room during those times. I remember his reciting of Ozymandias so clearly! He had high standards and expectations for us as his students and as I have continued on in my education I have often been reminded of what I learned specifically from Don Mitanoff. I majored in linguistics and was ever so grateful at that time for strict grammar lessons in grade 6 which helped to steer my love and confidence in analyzing text and sentence structure. As a teacher now myself I use the very recorder I played in his orchestra as only one of the ways I integrate music into my classroom. I have two teenage children who have often heard my many fondly remembered stories of Mr. Mitanoff and the valuable lifelong learning he was able to inspire. Thank You Mr.

Condolence: Mr. Mitanoff was my music teacher at Aurora Heights Public School and it was my favourite class. And it's funny--playing Ob-la-di Ob-la-da on the recorder in grade 7 kick-started my love of the Beatles which has never faded. I give him credit for that. :) In addition, he got me playing French Horn which I played through high school and which brought me much joy. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I hope it helps ease the pain when you think of all the young lives he touched, and all the ways our futures opened up because of his influence.

Condolence: Dear Lynn and family, Very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you all now. Wishing you peace and love. Ann

Condolence: Dear Family, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I am very saddened to hear this news. Mr. Mitanoff. He was my Grade 8 teacher at Parkview Public School in Unionville and I will never forget him. Seemed like a tough teacher at first.......but he taught us things we will never forget. (I became the BEST speller ever after hearing, "List 36, 6 times!" if we weren't behaving properly in class.) We sat in rows, not groups, we learned to be quiet and respectful when he was talking, we learned to memorize the Prime Ministers of Canada in one night for our "pop-test" and most of all......we learned how to play music and learned to love the accordion and his favourite song. "Macedonian Melody" (as he called it.) My older sister who is also a teacher , ended up working with him years ago in Mount Albert. (Linda Veitch) She told me he was the kindest teacher ever and that his "toughness" was just for show. He really loved his job and he really cared about his students.He wanted the best for them. I will miss you Mr. Mitanoff. I wish I had a chance to tell you in person how influential you were as a teacher. With much sympathy to your family, Marcia Papa (nee Wiebe)

Condolence: We're so deeply saddened by Don's passing. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful, loving family and Don was a special cousin to me. He was loved by his family and adored by his students. Don was the epitome of kindness and an all round nice guy. Be at peace Don. We will miss you.

Condolence: Dear Lynn & Family, Our deepest condolences to you all. Praying for you at this difficult time. It is wonderful to read that Don touched so many lives and we hope that that brings you some Ccomfort. He is now resting in the arms of Our Lord. God bless you all.

Condolence: Lynn and Family So sorry to hear of your loss. Don was clearly a well loved man and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Condolence: Mr. Mitanoff was our Grade 6 teacher at Sharon Public School many years ago. He was one of my favourite teachers - teaching us about music and all sorts of things. He taught us the Hava Nagila dance which I never forgot. Wonderful memories of an amazing man. My sincere condolences. Fiona Savage

Condolence: Lynn, I'm so sorry to have heard about Don's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Bob Kyriakides

Condolence: Dear Lynn I am sending you my love and strength. Thinking of you always . Hugs xoxoxo

Condolence: What a special, kind and thoughtful person Don was and what a beautiful team he and Lynn were...they shared such a community spirit and had such a strong and gentle presence together. Our deepest condolences on the loss of such a special man; we send lots of love and strength to his dear family and friends during this sad time. May love and happy memories sustain Lynn and family forever.

Condolence: We were so sorry to hear of Don's passing. Jim is laid up on intravenous and his doctor says it wouldn't be a good idea to go out...so we cannot attend the service but this is not what we would have wished. Jim has regaled us for years with stories of his exploits with Don and Jim Tait as kids. Swimming, bike riding and an accordion featured prominently. It is wonderful to hear that Don enjoyed music his whole life.... and to read the many notes from students who shared his interests. Our condolences to the entire family.

Condolence: To Mr. Mitanoff's family and friends, I wish to extend my deepest condolences. He was my most memorable, impactful, humorous and inspirational math and music teacher of my life. He taught me at Parkview in the late 1980s and left an indelible mark on my heart. He was such a role model to all his students everyday, not just in what he taught us, but how he taught it. I think he made every student feel respected and valued, no matter where we stood in our progress of learning or behaving. And he believed in us to reach beyond ourselves and exceed our expectations. His belief in each student shone through in his smile and humour and high expectations. I will forever thank my lucky stars that I had Mr. Mitanoff as a math and music inspiration in my life, at a time that mattered so much.

Condolence: so sorry to hear about Mr. Mitanoff's passing - he was an amazing teacher and inspired many of us with his love of music. I continued on with learning music and playing it because of his inspiration. My parents will never forget us learning the recorder - with great sincerity and gratitude my condolences

Condolence: Mr. Mitanoff started the instrumental music program at Aurora Heights Public School when I was in grade 8. His passion for music was infectious and I have no doubt that he had a big influence on me becoming a high school music teacher. Thank you Mr. Mitanoff for inspiring so many students over your many years of teaching. May your passion for music live on in those whose lives you touched.

Condolence: RIP from All the people who knew you as a good man and a great teacher at Aurora Heights Public School in Aurora ...very Sad news.

Condolence: I heard of Mr Mitanoff's passing this morning and I hope my thoughts will bring smiles to his loved ones in their grief. Mr Mitanoff was was our math and music teacher 30 odd years ago at Parkview Public School in Unionville. We were a group of very unruly preteens intent on showing off how "bad" we were. Yet, in that music portable, when we caught wind that Mr Mitanoff was coming, our bad selves would sit down and close our mouths because Mr. Mitanoff commanded respect. He didn't deserve bad behaviour nor would he abide by it. Regardless, we wouldn't ever think to subject him to it, we adored him. Though I love music, I was and am an extremely unmusical individual. Somehow I got stuck with the french horn and I was incredibly terrible at playing it. Nor did I ever practice. However, I decided that I wanted to be in Mr Mitanoff's band. I remember, klutzy as ever, knocking that horn hard into the door frame when I walked in to the room to try out for Mr M. He did not flinch, he did not laugh, he showed no sign of annoyance - he allowed me to sit down and "perform" my piece. Which I remember being even worse than usual and, humiliated, I promptly left. I was not chosen to play in band and very rightfully so, but never during my many musical failures in Mr Mitanoff's classes did he ever make me feel that I was as terrible as I clearly was. He was always gentle and mindful of our fragile and not yet very well formed sense of selves. He was kind, encouraging, tolerant and an exceptional teacher. My condolences to his family and friends. I hope it's of some comfort to them that he is remembered by a not very talented student from so long ago with so much fondness.

Condolence: Mr Mitanoff , Thank you for the gift of music , your enthusiasm for teaching is still a vivid memory , even after all these years since graduated Aurora Heights. Thoughts to your family & friends , but I am sure they possess a lifetime of great memories , especially of that bright smile & laughter.

Condolence: Don has been a part of my life ever since I was a child. He taught me the value of friendship. You see, he was one of my father's best friends. There was a small group of teachers that shared the love of teaching and formed a wonderful circle of friends. This group, called The United Nations, have been friends for as long as I can remember. Don, you will be truly missed in that circle. Don and Lynn have been at many special events. They were at my parents 25th wedding anniversary and 50th wedding anniversary, they have also attended numerous weddings and birthdays. I have never seen Don upset, he was always happy and had a wonderful way of lifting your spirits. I never had the pleasure of having him as a teacher, however, my sister did, and his teaching started her love for music. Thank you Don for the friendship you have shared with our family over the years. Thank you for the wonderful memories.

Condolence: Sorry to hear of the loss way too young of such a wonderful man and teacher. Best part of my Aurora Heights days. Rest In Peace Mr M.🌺🌺

Condolence: My sincerest condolences. Mr.Mitanoff was a wonderful teacher & inspired me to love music.

Condolence: I listen to music in a very different way because of Mr Mitanoff. He taught us so much many years ago at Aurora Heights PS. I had him for grade 7 and music for 4 years. I have so many great memories of him RIP

Condolence: My deepest sympathy to Mr. Mitanoff's family. He touched the lives of so many. A truly inspirational and talented teacher. I believe that good teachers are born and not made. He had a gift. Never gave up on a student, always found a way to reach them. Demanded and gave respect, no favourites...all were treated equally. I remember a Christmas concert at Mount Albert Public School. There was a tribute to Mr. Mitanoff. In a darkened room, one by one a person would stand and a light would shine on them. They were all past students, showing gratitude for their time with him and what he had done to change their lives. It was so incredibly moving the tears ran down my face. My daughter had her struggles and he reached out and helped her, I will never forget. He will always be remembered by so many.

Condolence: I am so sorry to hear of Don's passing. He was one of my most influential teachers at Sharon Public School, and I was thrilled to meet up with him again when he taught all three of my children at MAPS. He was a very special person who always treated his students with respect and received the same in return. I have great memories of his music nights. He will be greatly missed.

Condolence: So sad to hear of your passing . As I reflect all that you have done for so many. I can't not be so great full for having this teacher in his first year at Sharon public school. Wonderful man. When I moved to mount albert with my family I was more than pleased to have my boys have this amazing teacher.

Condolence: I'm sending my sincere condolences to Don's family. Praying that you will eventually find peace in your heart.

Condolence: What a wonderful man he was....a great music teacher! Everyone's favorite, I think. He told his students they could do it....so they did it! Any student who had him as a teacher was extra lucky. A great loss. He was one of the best! Our condolences to the family!

Condolence: Valerie, Andrew, Nick and Lynn; There are truly no words to express my grief. I am bereft. Don was my cousin but also my brother and friend. I have so many fond memories and so must you all. May these memories sustain you during this painful time. It is difficult to believe now, but there will be a time and I hope that it comes soon when only wonderful and happy memories of Don will fill your thoughts and you will smile and feel his presence by your side. May you know no more sorrow.

Condolence: To Lynn and Family, I am very saddened to hear of Don's passing. His dedication to his students really stood out to me when we worked together at Mount Albert Public School. He was concerned about the social and learning needs of each and every student while working to inspire them to do their best. I know he was deeply dedicated to his family as well. May you be comforted by knowing Don had a positive impact on the lives of many students and colleagues. I send my sincere condolences and will keep you in my thoughts as you commemorate Don's life. Beate

Condolence: Dearest Lynn, you, Valerie, Andrew and Nicholas are in my heart and mind. 31I feel honoured and blessed to have had such a good person as Don in my life. Your loss is great and though I am far away, we are only a phone call away should you need to share a laugh or a tear at any time. I am with you, my Ya Ya, in this sad time and always.

Condolence: Mr.Mitanoff had a significant impact on my decision to pursue music from grade 7 on and stick with the French horn through University. Very sorry for your loss and all those whose lives he touched...

Condolence: I am very sorry for your loss. Mr. Mitanoff was an incredible person and who made the lives of everyone who had the pleasure to know him better. As one of his students in both math and music, he never gave up on anyone in his classes. Even those of us who showed skills in some areas but not others. He pushed us all to achieve all we could and never believed anyone was a lost caused, no matter how many times we messed up our musical pieces. He was a rare person. He will be missed, but his legacy lives on in every student he taught.

Condolence: Growing up I can only think of a few teachers in my life that I can honestly say were teachers for all the right reasons. This man's passion for showing students exciting experiences in history and teaching them the first notes to music was the most important thing in the world. Very few teachers connect with students the way this man did. I am proud to be one of his students along with my sister who was lucky enough to have him as a homeroom teacher. This man showed me the world of music and opened my eyes to the joy of performing both as a group and more importantly as a individual. He was crucial to the man I am today in so many ways. VERY few teachers can say they have connected with their students like that and I am so lucky to have been one of them but I take great solace in knowing there were so many students taught by this man. From the first annoying notes on the recorder and that ridiculous accordian he would wear dancing around the class room to the more intense version of being singled out in senior band because you couldn't hold the note that extra half second. There wasn't one second he didn't have the importance of performing in his mind. As well as music he also laid the foundation for my love of history and how important the Democratic process is. From teaching about the curriculum of the founding of our great nation to the more important lessons that every single vote counts and not to think for one second that yours doesnt. I can remember the last time I saw him was at a grocery store while I was shopping with my wife and I was lucky enough to introduce her to my all time favorite and most important teacher. Thanks for all the perfect memories Mr.Mitanoff. Kenny

Condolence: Lynn, Andrew, Val, and Nick Everyone knows the love I had for Deedo. I am blessed to have had this wonderful man as such a large part of my life. I learned so much from him through the examples he put forth for me in raising Alex. I am grateful to him for being such an amazing grandfather and the love he put in Alex’s life, and in to my own. He will never forgotten and will be missed so greatly. I love you all, Crystal.

Condolence: Mr. Mitanoff is just one of those teachers you don’t forget. My fondest memories are being out in the music portable for his classes. You’ll be missed.

Condolence: To Lynn and Nick and other family members I didnt know- my deepest sympathies.

Condolence: Mr. Mitanoff was the best teacher and most influential person on my journey to becoming a teacher myself. Even though we were young, he saw us as complex people with our own personality. We weren't just students to him and teaching was not just a job. I have never forgotten his passion for music, especially the sweet sound of the accordion playing with 30 recorders, which he instilled in others. The world is at a loss without him.

Condolence: I am so sad to hear of Mr. Mitanoffs passing he taught me in grade 5-8 at Parkview Public school then my kids were lucky to have him at Mount Albert PS! Grew to realize what an amazing teacher Ihad when he taught my kids... he taught me so much about Canadian History!!! I am so sorry for his family.

Condolence: Mr. Mitanoff was the best teacher I've ever had. He had high expectations, was thorough and patient, and incorporated his accordion playing into everything! I lucky enough have him as a teacher at Mount Albert Public School in 1995 and 1997. He completely changed the kind of student I was and increased my expectations for myself. My condolences to his family, I still think of him to this day and what an impact he had on my academic life.

Condolence: Mr. Mitanoff was my grade 8 teacher at Mount Albert Public school, 18yrs ago. He was truly one of the best teachers I had ever had!!! He had a heart and a passion for the school, his students and music. There are many things he taught me that have still stuck with me to this day. Though there is nothing I can say to take away the pain of losing such an incredible man, please take comfort in knowing that he has left a lasting impact on so many of lives, which to me is a sign of a life well lived!!

Condolence: Lynn, I am very sorry to hear the news. Please know that I am sending my love and prayers. May you find the comfort you need at this time. Gassho, my teacher. _/\_

Condolence: Dearest Lynn and family, We are holding the light as you pass through this difficult time, trusting that you will find peace and joy in your memories of Don and his life well lived. Blessings to all, J&M

Condolence: Lynn, So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. You are in our thoughts during this difficult time.

Condolence: Dearest Lynn, Valerie, Andrew and Nick,and the rest of Don's family: As Queen Elizabeth II said at the funeral of Princess Diana: "Grief is the price we pay for love." As you grieve the loss of your husband/Dad may you also recall the great love he had for you and the kind and loving man he was to all. The world is a better place because Don was here. I hope the wonderful memories you shared bring you peace, comfort and some good smiles. Much love, Janina

Condolence: Dearest Lynn and family, We would wish you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories of Don to forever hold in your heart.

Condolence: On behalf of the entire Margaret Bahen Hospice family, please accept our deepest sympathies. It was an honour to care for Donald at Hospice.