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Michael Kirke Cafferata

1948 - 2020

Michael Kirke Cafferata obituary, 1948-2020, Chico, CA

BORN

1948

DIED

2020

Michael Cafferata Obituary

MICHAEL KIRKE CAFFERATA Michael Kirke Cafferata passed away on April 21, 2020, after a battle with cancer. A resident of Chico since 1972, he was born in Reno, Nevada, to Russell and Myra Cafferata on August 28, 1948. Michael was a proud veteran of the US Coast Guard, having served in Southeast Asia in the 1960s and 70s. Changes in Coast Guard regulations during his second year of service allowed him to grow his trademark beard. After moving to Chico, he worked in the lumber industry before returning to nursing school at the age of 40. Michael worked as a nurse at Enloe Hospital for 25 years, including time as a flight nurse with Enloe FlightCare. He loved his career in the Emergency Department where he was known as "Crusty." Michael was a lifelong woodworker, tinkerer, and collector. He was an avid reader. He loved the ocean, both the cold North Coast and Hawaii's sunny beaches. In retirement, he enjoyed volunteering for Butte Humane Society, especially working with the cats. More than anything, he adored his wife, two daughters and three dogs. He left behind a wide circle of friends and family whose lives were touched by his wisdom, wit, and enormous heart. Michael is survived by his wife Gail; daughter Melissa Cafferata-Ainsworth and her husband, Justin Ainsworth; daughter Lindsey Cafferata and her husband, Todd Simmons; granddaughters Emma and Elissa Ainsworth; and sister Piper Cafferata. If you are so inclined, a donation to Butte Humane Society or the NRA would be a most appropriate tribute. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chico Enterprise-Record from Apr. 30 to May 1, 2020.

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Susan McNally

April 24, 2024

Michael was a good human. He cared for others and was known for his wit. He is missed by his family and friends.
His wife taught with my mom and his daughters and wife were good friends as the girls grew up. Rest Well Micheal.

Dennis J. Ponzuric, YN2, USCG

October 31, 2020

Michael Cafferata was my shipmate. He was a serious Coastie, always ready to "turn to", always a smile. He was good friend. I left the USCGC Basswood in February of 1969, and I have thought of Mike often over the past 50 years. Fair winds and following seas, Mike. Semper Paratus, Yeoman Dennis Ponzuric

When we were very young...

Piper

May 6, 2020

Sadness at the loss of my brother is understated. I loved his humor and wisdom even when we didnt see eye to eye. Thank you to those who have shared your connection, stories, and love.

Patty

May 1, 2020

I remember when Michael first started working on DCU in the 90s. He was very serious about his job which is important when you are caring for our patients who are ill. He expected a high level of competence from his co-workers and he did not mind teaching us good techniques when caring for our patients.

Susan Squyres-McNally

May 1, 2020

I have many wonderful memories of Michael and the family. Our daughters were the same age and we shared a lot in the early years. He was always kind and had a dry sense of humor. I loved how he was as a father and husband. I am sorry to hear of his passing and offer love and virtual hugs for the family.

Donna Bell

April 30, 2020

I worked with Michael on DCU many years ago when I was a CNA and he an RN. And again over the years past throughout my Enloe employment as an RN. Michael always reminded me what was most important about nursing, developing a personal connection with people. He always seemed to foster a special connection with his patients. He was firm, yet compassionate. His sarcastic humor was one thing I loved about him. He was genuine. He was honest. He was a kind-hearted man who would mentor nurses in ways they would always remember. Extending Love to his family. Rest in Peace, sweet soul.

Susan Bennett

April 30, 2020

Oh Crusty. Such a diamond in the rough. You were a friend and such a mentor. I loved working with you, learning from you and just listening to the Crusty comments that you would say. Somethings only you would say. I miss you and hope your up there in the heavens still being you. I'm sure when you arrived you made it known to all. You will be greatly missed.

Dora Andersen

April 30, 2020

Big heart of gold.

Jen

April 30, 2020

Heart of gold and one-of-a-kind.

Geri Ainsworth

April 30, 2020

Michael Cafferatta raised very competent daughters who are high achievers who share his love for animals. To love and show love is the greatest example of achievement in any successful life. Thank you Gail and Michael for sharing your love with my son and his two daughters! They know you care! Also, thank you for your service in the U.S. COAST GUARD and as a nurse!

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