Michael was born on October 18th, 1929 on a small farm in Fraserwood, Manitoba and was the eldest son of Peter and Helen Wasylowski.

Mike, or “Mickey” as he became known, began at an early age to show his love for music, in his desire to play instrument and become part of the “Ukrainian Music Scene”. At age 15, he began playing independently, first as a violinist and finally finding his true calling as a drummer. For the next 5 years, Mickey toured the Interlake, playing with local musicians wherever and whenever the opportunity arose. Many a weekend saw Mickey playing community functions including picnics, old time barn dances and weddings.

Although his love of playing never waned, he chose to pack his drums away for a brief time, as his interests swayed to a new love. It was at this point in his life that he met Agatha Weselak and after a brief courtship, asked for her hand in marriage.

Mickey's love of music soon proved to be too strong as the “Call to Play” would beckon once again. In 1951, Mickey ventured out playing at with local bands including The Sunshine Boys, finally settling in with The Thunder River Boys. The band continued with its strong ties to a “Tradition of Ukrainian Music” playing at countless weddings, weekly dances at legions and at the Ukrainian National Federation Hall. When the opportunity arose, he was honoured to play for the Rusalka Dancers. Throughout this period of time, he also recorded his music reproducing it on both long play (78’s/33’s) and short play (45’s) records.

Mickey often related stories of his old days when the band would venture out on the highway regardless of the conditions, in order to meet the music commitments they had made. On one such occasion when the fog became so bad, he admitted to sitting on the front hood of the band’s car to pass directions to the driver in order to remain on the road and reach their destination. He valued his word and recognized that the success of many a social function dependent on the musical ability of the band and be there to make it happen regardless of conditions. He often stated, “To look out onto the full dance floor was the best compliment a musician could receive”. He took great pride in making this happen whenever he played. 

Mickey continued with his music until 1988 when, for reasons of health, he was forced to retire. Although he was unable to play, his love for music never left his side. Many a day he could be found listening and taping “Ukrainian and Old Time” music. He was forever proud to see the tradition carried forward by his niece and nephews, Tammy, Dale and Dean Wasylowski of “Kalyna”.

Mickey was a proud part of this tradition, and his memory will always live on in his music. He would have been truly honored and humbled by his induction into Ukrainian Musicians Hall of Fame.