Shock and sadness are reverberating throughout Canada’s mortgage industry following an apparent murder-suicide that has struck painfully close to one of its own.
Axiom Mortgage President and CEO Michael Cameron took to social media to express his grief over girlfriend Colleen Sillito’s senseless death on Friday. The two had been dating since early May.
Sillito, a 46-year-old artist, photographer and mother of five, was reportedly killed by an ex-boyfriend in Fort Saskatchewan, where she lived.
“She was passionate about life,” Cameron wrote on his Facebook page. “She loved her children. Her ability to create beauty through her art, photography, pottery and music was generously shared with others. She lived a life full of adventure. She will be missed more than we can possibly express.”
Cameron, who also sits on CAAMP’s Board of Directors, has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money to help support Sillito’s children.
“This fund will be set up in trust for her younger children so that they can continue to bring their mother’s joy to the world,” Cameron wrote on the fundraising page. “Donate if you can but if you can’t please make a small gesture of kindness to someone else in her honour. She would be thrilled to know that her death was not meaningless and that she continued to inspire others to live a full life, love deeply and care for others.”
Dear sweet, beautiful friends,
I am staggered by the outpouring of empathy, compassion and love from all of you. Thank you. The loss of this beautiful woman named Colleen whom I had the honor of loving is difficult to comprehend. Your support and love are exactly what I have needed. I know everyone wants to do more but I assure you your messages of support have been very meaningful.
I know many of you are concerned for my well being so I want to assure you that I have spoken to a grief counselor and am confident I am on a solid path to healing, though it will be a long road. I was able to spend yesterday morning at the Pottery Guild she loved so much. I shared stories with her fellow Potters who she had spoken of often. It was an amazing way to spend the morning.
I know there is a lot of anger out there over her death right now. There will be time enough for anger, now is the time to simply celebrate her life.
If you have not yet done so, I invite you to watch a little of what Colleen and I shared. http://mikecameron.ca/colleen/
When you see me at Mortgage Forum 2015 in Toronto please come give me a hug, ask me how I am doing and I will share a story or two with you. Your support is heartwarming and gives me hope for our future.
Much Love.
God Bless you Mike, during this horrible tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with you pal.
Vince Agozzino.
Wow – what a horrible tragedy. I do not know Mike personally but want to send my condolences and thoughts.
Mike, Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss…My thoughts and prayers are with you, the kids and the entire family during this difficult time.