My beloved husband and best friend, Michael "Mike" Califf, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at the age of 82. Throughout his final journey with cancer, even as the disease gradually robbed him of his ability to communicate, Mike faced every challenge with remarkable grace, courage, and unwavering positivity. His quiet strength inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mike was born in Los Angeles, California, in 1944 to Frank and Paula (née Hunt) Califf. He joined the United States Marine Corps in 1961 and served for four years. The Marines recognized his natural aptitude for electrical work, and Mike built upon that early training to become a master electrician. For more than 50 years, he worked primarily in industrial settings while also serving the communities of Newaygo and Mecosta Counties as an electrical inspector and building official.

Mike worked until the cancer stopped him because he was happiest when he was building, repairing, or creating something. Whether on a job site or in his workshop, he took pride in doing things well. His remarkable skills helped us create our dream home in the woods, and he was always eager to teach and encourage me as I learned new building skills and pursued my formal education. His confidence in me was one of the greatest gifts he ever gave.

When he wasn't working, Mike enjoyed fishing, reading science fiction, and listening to music. He was a kind and generous man with a lively sense of humor, a touch of pirate spirit in his soul, and delighted in mischievous fun—much to the shock of my young nieces when he unapologetically cheated at cards. Soon after we were married, he began campaigning for pets and, while working in England, even invented an elaborate story to explain why we should acquire two kittens. Those kittens were the beginning of a long line of beloved cats and dogs, though he shared an especially close bond with our Standard Poodle, Maggie.

While our animals may have been his surrogate children, Mike was always especially proud of his sons, Paul and David. Nothing pleased him more than seeing them build lives and families of their own.

Mike is survived by his wife, Elizabeth C. Califf; his sons, Paul Califf and David (Terri) Califf; his grandson, David Michael Califf; his sisters; and many other cherished relatives and friends.

A small graveside gathering for family and close friends will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at Maple Grove Cemetery in Fremont, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to TrueNorth Community Services, PO Box 149, Fremont, MI (truenorthservices.org).

Mike's life was defined not only by the things he built with his hands, but by the love, laughter, encouragement, and steadfast devotion he gave to those fortunate enough to share life with him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.