Michael Ray Karaffa
1955 - 2017
Michael Ray Karaffa
1955 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1955
DIED
2017
Michael Karaffa Obituary
Michael Ray Karaffa, 62, of Grapevine passed away on July 31, 2017.
Michael was born on February 7, 1955. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps as an F-4 Fighter Pilot from 1978-1984. Michael then became a Pilot for American Airlines for 21 years before retiring. Everyone who knows him describe his as a faithful friend. Michael had a soft spot for all dogs, but especially for his girls, Vanity and Vixen, his beloved basset hounds.
Michael is survived by his mother, Shirley Carolyn Karaffa of Ohio, his brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Karen Karaffa of Ohio, nieces and nephew, Kristen (Mike) Strum of Ohio, Kelly (Kevin) Goldner of Ohio, and Matthew (Alyssa) Karaffa of Ohio, six great nieces and nephews and a host of lifelong friends.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bob Steven
December 2, 2017
Mike and I flew at AAL together, shared an affinity for dogs, and were neighbors in Southlake, TX. When we lost one of our beloved dogs, he presented my wife with a special, touching poem that we still keep and refer to. One of our favorite memories is the special backseat bed that he installed in his Jaguar sedan so that his dog could be comfortable.
We miss you, Mike! Blue skies and good tailwinds on your journey!
Terry Hamilton
November 29, 2017
I was very saddened to recently learn of Mike's passing. A gifted aviator, he and I were crewed together in Beaufort, SC in the early 1980s and we flew many enjoyable hours together in the F-4 Phantom. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during their time of great loss.
Jackie Little
September 22, 2017
The service at DFW National Cemetery was very fitting for Mike. Respectful and dignified. My condolences to his family and friends. Rest easy, Mike.
Lela Davis Nichols
August 22, 2017
My deepest sympathy to Mike's family. We were so close over the years even though sometimes many years passed between visits. He will be so missed by many. I'm very distressed by Mike's early passing. May he rest in peace. Please inform me of any service.
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August 20, 2017
Mike was a dear next door neighbor and friend when he lived in Arlington. Although we had not been in touch for a number of years, I was stunned to learn of his passing this morning. I will always remember Michael's kindness and some of my fondest memories are of Mike and his sweet dog, who I cared for often when he was on trips. My condolences to the Karaffa Family. Mike was a special person and will be sincerely missed.
Madeleine Manire
Kennedale, TX
August 3, 2017
Celebrating a life well lived. We will all cherish the memories forever. Mike was a special person to everyone he came across and will be missed!!
Susan E
Tom Duncavage
August 2, 2017
My prayers and deepest condolences to the Karaffa family. Mike was my instructor pilot in the F-4 when I first arrived in Beaufort. He was a superb pilot with poster card bearing, and a man I am honored to have shared the sky with.
-Tom Duncavage
August 2, 2017
Praying for comfort , Mike touched so many lives ,in so many ways . I will miss you Mike.
Love, Candi
August 1, 2017
May God's loving kindness and comfort help you and your family through this very sad time Psalms 29:11
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523 S Main St, Grapevine, TX 76051
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