Michèle Anne Kostal, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, after a prolonged and admirable fight with metastatic breast cancer. Michèle was born in Toronto on November 18, 1958, to Arnošt and Simone (née Weilguny). Her magnetic personality, brimming with intelligence and charm, captivated all those fortunate enough to find themselves in her orbit. She was generous with her laugh and wit, and brought an infectious smile into every occasion.

Michèle was the devoted wife of Sydney Dreksler, with whom she shared an incredible life for over four decades. Together, they travelled the world collecting experiences, stories, and art to immortalize their memories. They created a home filled with laughter and warmth, and kept an open door for anyone who needed a place to belong.

As a mother, Michèle was a guiding light to her four children: Nathaniel (Siegal), Aviva (Mark), Hannah (Carl), and Simone (Zachary). Michèle’s love for her children was boundless. She taught them to be kind to those around them, to suffer no fools, and to find joy in every experience.

Michèle will be dearly missed by a wonderful extended family including her revered mother-in-law Ida, as well as by her expansive community of lifelong friends, fellow volunteers, and similarly impassioned patrons of the arts.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, June 3rd, at Steeles Memorial Chapel. Following the service, shiva will be observed at 1 Abbeywood Trail, where all are welcome to join in remembrance of her spirit.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Michèle to Breast Cancer Support Fund  www.breastcancersupportfund.ca/donate or Beit Halochem Canada  https://www.beithalochem.ca/ .