Calvin R. Little

LELAND - It is with full hearts that we share the passing of our father, Calvin R. "Cal" Little, a man with a big personality whose presence lit up every room and whose curiosity carried him through a life well-lived. He left this world much as he lived in it: on his own terms, surrounded by love and laughter, and-true to form-leaving his children with a final set of instructions. He leaves behind a legacy defined by connection, learning, and an unmistakable charm.

Born on September 5, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, to Alec and Elva (Henderson) Little, Cal had a remarkable talent for connecting with people. Whether chatting over a cup of coffee, debating an issue he cared about, or striking up conversations in the most unlikely places, he made every exchange feel meaningful. He believed in the power of human connection and approached everyone with genuine interest and warmth.

He also possessed a lifelong love of learning. His bookshelves bowed under the weight of subjects that fascinated him, and he couldn't resist sharing newly discovered facts-usually at length, and usually with a twinkle in his eye daring you to challenge his knowledge. His mind was restless in all the best ways.

And then there was his charm-an effortless charisma that made him unforgettable. He had a quick wit, an easy smile, and a gift for turning ordinary moments into treasured memories. Now, no doubt, he is charming the angels.

Of course, his particularness and organization were legendary. He had strong ideas about how things ought to be done, and he wasn't shy about saying so. But even this came from an unwavering standard for excellence. If something was worth doing, it was worth doing right-preferably his way.

Cal was driven and deeply committed to his community, working hard for causes he believed in, even when they weren't popular or convenient. He never avoided hard work or hard conversations, serving with integrity and passion.

His career path was anything but linear, something he took great pride in. He began in marketing and advertising in Detroit before opening his own marketing firm. He and his wife, Marge, later bought Benjamin Twiggs Cherry Products. After selling that business, he drove a BATA bus, negotiating three Teamsters Union contracts during his tenure. He proudly served as Leland Township Supervisor from 2012 to 2016, and in recent years ran a taxi service within Leelanau County, specializing in trips to and from Cherry Capital Airport. With each chapter, he found new ways to express his creativity, challenge himself, and form new connections.

Through it all, he loved Michigan-especially Leelanau County, the place he called home. He knew its backroads and stories by heart, championed its people, and delighted in its beauty-and its bakeries. It wasn't just where he lived; it was part of who he was. And as every friend and family member could tell you, he was a diehard Detroit Lions fan-faithful through every high and heartbreak-and absolutely unreachable on Sunday afternoons when the Lions were playing.

He leaves behind a family who loved him, admired him, and sometimes argued with him-because he wouldn't have had it any other way. We will remember him for his intellect, his humor, his convictions, and the charm that made even his stubborn moments endearing.

Cal is survived by his children, Katie Browning (Dale), Betsy Baker, and Jeff Little (Jill); his grandchildren, MacLean, Alec, and Cali Little, and Greta Baker; and his faithful dog, Ranger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Margaret "Marge" (Boucher) Little, his brother Donald Little, and his sister Susan Little.

His life is a reminder of how meaningful it is to stay curious, stay kind, and stay connected.

A memorial service to celebrate Cal's life will take place in Leland in 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: Leland Township Fire & Rescue, PO Box 578, Leland, MI 49654, or 5Loaves2Fish, PO Box 173, Leland, MI 49654.