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1924
2012
(NEWS ARTICLE) TECUMSEH, Mich. - Gloria Calhoun, a native of Mexico who moved with her husband after World War II to southeast Michigan, where she heLped him operate a flight school and she taught Spanish language and literature to high school and college students in Tecumseh and Ann Arbor, died Wednesday in Dallas.
Mrs. Calhoun, 88, who lived in Presbyterian Village North in Dallas, suffered dementia, said her daughter, Cindy Calhoun.
Mrs. Calhoun met her husband, John Leslie Calhoun, in Laredo, Texas, where he was an Army Air Corps flight instructor. She was working for her father, a Mexican customs official on the other side of the border.
The former Gloria Davila was taking English language instructions when the two met in a restaurant.
Their daughter said her father used the pickup line of offering to teach his wife-to-be how to speak English.
The couple married in Mexico City on Sept. 2, 1946, and moved to a farm southeast of Tecumseh, where Mr. Calhoun grew up.
"It was a big step for both of them," their daughter said. "She had left her country and moved to cold country and he married someone outside of his religion and culture."
Mrs. Calhoun, who was born on March 10, 1924, was raised Catholic; he was Presbyterian.
She embraced his religion and became a member of the Raisin Presbyterian Church in Britton. She served many years as a ruling elder.
Back in Michigan, Mr. Calhoun transferred his wartime skills into a civilian occupation, giving flying lessons to students, many of whom used the GI Bill, their daughter said.
Mr. Calhoun initially taught at Al Meyers Airport in Tecumseh, but later bought land between Britton and Tecumseh to build an airport and to operate the Calhoun School of Aviation, their son John said.
The couple named the 4,400-foot air strip Calhoun International Airport, in a humorous nod to Mrs. Calhoun's heritage.
Mrs. Calhoun kept the books, scheduled training flights, and ran the business while her husband taught, John Calhoun said.
Jim Merrillatt, who bought the airport on Rogers Road, has since expanded the operation, John Calhoun said.
Mrs. Calhoun received her bachelor's degree in philosophy from what was then Siena Heights College in 1964 and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Michigan in 1968.
She taught Spanish in the Tecumseh public school district beginning in 1964 and four years later at Ann Arbor Pioneer High School. She taught Spanish literature at the University of Michigan and later at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Mrs. Calhoun loved her students. Her lessons would include important values she thought students should have as well, her daughter said. "She didn't believe that any kid was bad," her daughter said.
She retired from the Texas position in 2007 and moved back to Michigan. After her health began to fail, she returned to Dallas to be close to her daughter.
She used her Spanish teaching skills as a consultant for Princeton University's advanced placement committee, which designs tests for high school students, for 20 years, her daughter said.
Her husband died in 1997.
Mrs. Calhoun is survived by her daughter, Cindy Calhoun; son John Charles Calhoun, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
Sparkman Funeral Home, Dallas, handled the arrangements. The family plans a celebration of her life in Tecumseh in the spring.
Tributes are suggested to Raisin Presbyterian Church, in care of John Calhoun, 440 Oakwood, Clarklake, Mich. 49234.
- Jim Sielicki
32 Entries
I was one of Gloria's many student teachers at Pioneer High School. She was an excellent teacher who had a great influence on my career as a Spanish teacher. She embraced not only the Spanish language and literature, but her students as well. They adored her. I am so sad to read of this and so sorry for your loss.
April 20, 2015
I was one of Gloria's many student teachers at Pioneer High School. She was an excellent teacher who had a great influence on my career as a Spanish teacher. She embraced not only the Spanish language and literature, but her students as well. They adored her. I am so sad to read of this and so sorry for your loss.
Emily Serafa Manschot
April 20, 2015
Gloria Calhoun was the teacher all kids should have in their school history. She was tough, loving, funny, encouraging,, etc. etc.
She was a good friend, a compassionate peer, she was the best I have ever seen in my life. The world is better because of Gloria.
I'll miss her!!! Te echo de menos, querida Gloria,
Maria Rosa McCabe
Maria Rosa McCabe
October 31, 2012
Dearest Cindy and family, my prayers have been with you since your mother's passing. I have never known a more loving and caring person than Gloria. Every time I would see her she had a smile on her face and a kind word to share. She was a blessing to all that knew her. It seems strange that she is not here with us physically, but I truly believe her spirit will always be with us. Rest in peace, beautiful Gloria. We love you, Brenda McKinney
Brenda McKinney
October 26, 2012
Thinking of all of you! Thanks goodness for the memories! Rest in Peace Gloria!
Bryan Amstutz
October 22, 2012
Aunt Gloria will be sorely missed. Her energy and sense of humor kept us going when we most needed it. She was so much fun and we shared family stories every time we were together and laughed so much! She hosted my husband Colin when we first moved to Michigan, and she was a loving and caring Great-Aunt to my children. Thank you, Aunt Gloria! You will not be forgotten!
Monica Stevens
October 12, 2012
Cindy & family - our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Wish we had known Gloria was in the Dallas area - we have missed all of you so much.
Guy & Debbie Spalding - Jamie & Petra Mowrey & family
October 8, 2012
Our heartfelt condolences to you Cindy, Preston and your entire family on the loss of your Mom, Gloria. I remember meeting Gloria years ago, and each time we went to your home, Gloria radiated a kind, gentle and loving spirit. She was certainly a gentle soul, and I know she left this world from the hands of her loving family with joy, into the loving presence of the Lord.
May you and your family find comfort from the healing hand of God during this difficult time. Keeping each of you and your family in our prayers. Frank, Terri & Stephen
Mills
October 4, 2012
Depest condolences, Cindy, on the loss of your dear Mom. I met her at Preston's 8th grade graduation and remember how lovely she was. She was so blessed to have you as her daughter. Prayers for you and your family.
Suzanne Wade
October 4, 2012
Cindy, our hearts go out to you, Preston and your family during this difficult time and in the days ahead. May the love and prayers of family and friends comfort you.
Diane and Alex Ponzio
October 4, 2012
Cindy, so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing...you were such a loving and devoted daughter and our prayers are with you and Preston as you walk through this. May the Angels comfort you! Laura and Tracy
October 4, 2012
Cindy,
You have a special angel watching over you now. Know your St.Rita friends are thinking about you during this difficult time.
Carol and Dave Anderson
October 4, 2012
Heaven has a new angel!!!
My thoughts and prayers are with you Cindy. Not only today but always.
Love you...Stacy Dey
October 3, 2012
Cindy and Chuck, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I will never forget your mother's positive outlook nor her beautiful smile. She opened many doors to the world for me.
Mary Basterra(Burns)
October 2, 2012
What a beautiful woman she was. I'm so glad I had the opportunity of meeting her several years ago. I can certainly see you in her, Cindy.
Bless you and your family at this time. You are in our thoughts.
Love from all of us,
Wren, Hunter & Kelly
Wren Marshall
October 2, 2012
My prayer are with you Cindy Calhoun. It was a pleasure taking care of your mother, ( Gloria) she was a very sweet person love to look beautiful kept her lipstick wherever she went she had to make sure she had her lipstick on and her jewerly on. i really enjoy her for the lil time we had together she surely will be miss by the staff @ Hughes Circle. Gloria, Mercy, Kutoma, and Laquisha.
October 1, 2012
My sincere sympathy to the Calhoun family. May god give you comfort.(Psalms 55:22
Joann, Ohio
October 1, 2012
What can I say, Gloria was a wonderful woman. I have always enjoyed visiting her when i was at Cindys house. I loved polishing her nails. She appreciated anything anyone did for her no matter how big or small. We will truley miss her wonderful smile. I am so glad we got to be there for her birhtday. It looks like Cindy will cary on her mothers smile and strength. Love to you all Lill Davis.
Lill Davis
October 1, 2012
Gloria was not just one of my favorite alumna of Siena Heights but was, quite literally, one of my favorite people when I worked there as the Alumni Director. She had such a smart wit about her and was so welcoming and gracious. She was a truly adorable person who loved life and loved people. I thought the world of Gloria. Much love and prayers to her family during this time.
Lynne Redman
October 1, 2012
Cindy and Chuck, you have my deepest sympathy. Your Mom was a beautiful woman and I know you will cherish all of the wonderful moments you got to spend with her. God Bless.
AmyJo Kring-Rasmussen Caro, MI
October 1, 2012
Cindy, our deepest sympathy to you and your family. All your loving memories will live on forever in your heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Diane & Chris Etzler
October 1, 2012
What a beautiful picture of your mother. The last time I saw her she was still just as beautiful as in this picture. I remember her as one of the kindest people I have ever known. When I would come to your house, her wonderful smile and gentle nature always made me feel welcome. How fortunate you and Chuck were to have such loving and kind parents. My sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Deb Taylor
September 30, 2012
I have so many fond memories of my times with the Calhoun family in Tecumseh. Gloria inspired me personally and professionally. Cindy and Chuck, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kathy Ledesma
September 30, 2012
Cindy...your Mom was a darling woman...I will always remember her out in your yard with "Freeway" You are in my thoughts and prayers. I lost my Mom in November and think of her everyday...they are always with us.
Anne Sadovsky Sitzman
September 30, 2012
Cindy and Chuck, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your families at this difficult time. I remember the gentle spirit and helpful nature of your mom and will always remember her as an exceptionally special and giving person.
Gale Murdock
September 30, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you both. Always continue to share the memories of your Mom and she will never be forgotten Ron and Brenda (Allen) Andrews
September 29, 2012
Our most sincere sympathy goes out to you Cindy and your family. Gloria was a remarkable woman and we are blessed to have met her. May you find comfort in your memories with her. You remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Bernie, Ken, Alex and Jacque Marcus
September 29, 2012
Cindy,
I always enjoyed spending time with your mother after she retired. She was so much fun and full of life. And the stories she could tell about you! I know that her passing will be a big void in your life. You took such good care of her and I never heard you complain. You are a wonderful daughter and are to be admired. May you and your family find peace during this difficult time.
Chuck Stein
September 29, 2012
Cindy wishing you and your family the greatest peace that can be found. I am thinking of you and your family. I truly enjoyed caring for your mom, she could always make me smile.
Ellie and Housecall Associates
Eleanor Quinn
September 29, 2012
Thinking of you, Cindy and Chuck, at this difficult time. I'm glad you got to have her for so long. Strength to your extended family.
Leslie Pence Hall
September 29, 2012
My prayers go to a wonderful woman who never thought I was as inept at Spanish as I thought I was. Rest in peace, Mrs. Calhoun.
Beverly (Fitzpatrick) Dutcher
September 29, 2012
Thinking of you Chuck and Cindy. You took wonderful care and became everything she wished for you. Relish the memories. Cyndi Feight Smith
September 29, 2012
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