D. Michael “Mike” Callagee, of Englewood Fla., formerly of Chesterton, passed away Aug. 5, 2008 at Tidewell Hospice and Palliative Care in Englewood, Fla. He was 62.

He was born July 16, 1946 in Buffalo, N.Y. His mother, Doris Wilke survives in Englewood, Fla.

Also surviving are a daughter, Jennifer (Terry) Rex, of New Valrico, Fla.; a brother, Francis (Stella) Callagee of St. George, Utah; a sister, Judy (Dr. Thomas) Fletcher of Maplewood, Minn. and many nieces and nephews. He was a wonderful and very special “Papa” to Alyssa, Christopher, Annastasia, Michael, and Trenton.

He was preceded in death by his wife of eight years, Sherry; a sister and brother-in-law, Gail and Terry Schlifke, of Kenmore, N.Y. and grandparents, Howard and Rose Douglas, also of N.Y.

Mr. Callagee retired from Bethlehem Steel after more than 30 years of service as a superintendent. He moved from Chesterton to Englewood in 1997 to enjoy his retirement and spend time with his family. He was a member of Fellowship Church Englewood and the Moose club. He enjoyed fishing on his boat, golfing, cooking, playing cards with friends, sports, and being the neighborhood handyman. Mike’s greatest asset and achievement was his kind heart and devotion to his family. He helped out everyone that needed it without asking for anything in return. He loved his family, friends, grandchildren and his dogs, Max and Lacey, very much.

A memorial service will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14 at Gulf Pines Memorial Park’s Chapel of Peace in Englewood, with interment to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to Suncoast Humane Society, 6781 San Casa Road, Englewood, Florida 34224.

Lemon Bay Funeral Home, Englewood Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lemonbayfh.com

Posted 8/12/2008