Wrestling Canada Lutte (WCL) was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Olympian and WCL Hall of Fame member Michelle Fazzari. Michelle passed away on Aug. 30 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 37 years old.

Michelle had an outstanding wrestling career that included gold medals at international events such as the Pan-American Championships (2014 and 2017), World Cup (2013), Francophone Games (2013) and Matteo Pellicone Tournament. She also was a silver medalist at the Commonwealth Gamers (2018) and World Cup (2012) and won a bronze medal at the World Championships (2017). In 2016, she became an Olympian, competing at 58kg at the Rio Games. Fazzari was also a multiple time National Champion.

In 2024, Michelle was honoured as an inductee to the WCL Hall of Fame. Her induction occurred at the Canadian Wrestling Championships (U19, U17, U15) in Mississauga, Ontario, where many guests, family and friends came out to support her, showing just how big of a positive impact she had on so many lives.

A Celebration of Life has been announced for Sept. 29, 2024, 1-4 p.m. at Club Roma (Gemini Room), 125 Vansickle Rd. St. Catharines, ON. Prayer and speeches will be at 2 p.m. Guests are invited to wear colour in honour of Michelle’s bright spirit and bring a favorite picture of Michelle to leave with her family.