Since ice hockey player Michael Bunting’s parents divorced early, his mother, Lynda, raised him and his brother as a single mother.
Reportedly, Andy and Lynda are no longer together; however, the reason behind their failed marital relationship remains unknown.
Lynda took up the mantle of raising Michael Bunting and his elder brother, Christopher Bunting, alone in the Scarborough suburb of Toronto, Ontario.
Their dad worked for the City of Toronto, while Lynda was a Shoppers Drug Mart bookkeeper. She ensured her boys had everything they needed, even when life wasn’t easy.
The Bunting brothers have maintained a sound relationship with their father.
Bunting’s father, Andy, had come to watch his match in January 2023.
“I’m a Mama’s Boy, and She’s My Rock,” Michael Bunting Admits Wholeheartedly!
Michael Bunting’s mother, Lynda, worked flexible hours, which allowed her to be there for her kids, whether driving Michael to early hockey practices or attending their games.
“I’m not gonna say it was easy, but I just really enjoyed doing everything with them, taking them to their sports, and watching them.” Lynda said of being a single mother.
Bunting’s grandfather, whom he called Papa, moved in after his parents separated.
Although money was tight, Lynda always found a way to make ends meet. She didn’t just provide for her kids; she inspired them.
Lynda was an athlete herself; she played tennis and volleyball when she was younger. Hence, she believed her boys should learn how to skate and swim but let them decide what sports to pursue.
Michael loved sports and played everything from basketball to tennis, but hockey was his true passion. However, hockey came with challenges since Lynda couldn’t afford expensive training camps or equipment.
Completely aware of the financial condition, Michael didn’t mind, so he would often play with used gear.
“My mom had a lot of expenses on her so I never really wanted her to spend that much money for me to play hockey. I never really got the top-of-the-line stick, never had the top-of-the-line anything.” Michael said.
When Michael got the chance to play AAA hockey, it seemed almost impossible. The costs were too high. But thanks to the support of his high school coach, Shane Bowler, and the Don Mills Flyers, the family received financial help, and Michael got his shot.
During this time, Lynda was dealing with her own battle; she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Michael Bunting’s Mother, Lynda, Is a Breast Cancer Survivor!
It was devastating news, especially with Michael preparing to leave home to play in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
Lynda kept a positive attitude, telling her boys the doctors had caught it early and that she would be okay.
Michael stayed in touch constantly, calling after every doctor’s appointment to check on her.
Lynda didn’t let her illness stop her from supporting her son. She drove seven hours north to watch his games in Sault Ste.
Fortunately, everything was good, and now Lynda is cancer-free.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Michael Bunting married Jordan McDonell in July 2024. The couple publicly announced their relationship in March 2018.
- Bunting has an estimated net worth of $11 million.
