Michael Angelo Chirco

Michael Angelo Chirco - A Life Lived Mike's Way

We remember Michael Angelo Chirco (January 21, 2026, age 80) as a cornerstone of his family and community. To those who knew him personally or through his professional reputation, the meaning of that word was found not in titles or accolades, but in how he lived, showing generosity, integrity, and an unmistakable presence. He was a devoted family man, a visionary business owner, and the life of the party in every room he entered.

Michael's greatest joy was the life he built with his wife of 55 years, Mary. Together they created a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. He was father and "Papa" to six children and 14 grandchildren, including Eva (David) Evola, parents of Maria (Wilson) Pate, Michael, and Sofia; Guistina Chirco; Joseph (Kelly) Chirco, parents of Mary Grace, Annabella, Michael, and Joseph; Rosemarie (Sam) D'Angelo, parents of Salvatore and Caterina; Maria (Bryan) Yeck, parents of Angelo and Nora; and Michele (Allyssa) Chirco, parents of Marianna, Estelle, and Giorgia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Eva Chirco, Mary's parents, Michele and Giustina Grillo, and is survived by his sister, Rosalie (Frank) LoChirco, whose love and support remained a constant throughout his life. His love for family defined him most and was the foundation of a life further marked by service, dedication, and a steady sense of purpose.

Michael attended St. Philip Neri High School and his activities included football, basketball, choir and judo (brown belt). He also spent his early years working alongside his father at the family's fish market in Detroit. He later served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant, before returning home and starting his career in finish carpentry. He and his father founded MJC Homes together, and under Michael's leadership it became one of Michigan's most respected developers and homebuilders. As a businessman, he combined sharp acumen with a generosity of spirit, building ventures that reflected his vision, values, and commitment to community.

Michael lived and shared a simple philosophy: "You are not better than anyone else, respect everyone, and treat others as you would want to be treated." It was a belief that shaped not only how he moved through the world, but how he gave back to it. His generosity extended far beyond his family, reaching into the Italian community that raised him and the traditions that formed his identity. His pride in his heritage and his contributions to the community led to his being honored as Man of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year, Cavaliere and many others. He also quietly supported causes that strengthened the lives of others; his philanthropy touched hospitals, religious and cultural societies, and other charitable organizations, especially the St. Louis Center, raising over $1,000,000 hosting the Annual Dad & Lad Golf Outing annually for 28 years. His contributions were never offered for recognition, but because helping others was simply the right thing to do.

Another motto Mike often repeated was, "I'm happy being miserable." To those who knew him, it was less a complaint and more a reminder that life is too short to dwell on what you can't change. He believed in finding joy wherever you could, staying close to the people you love, and making time for the things that bring life meaning. With his family and friends, he loved playing golf (with two hole-in ones), tending to his koi fish and flowers (too many to count), collecting classic cars (especially old Lincolns) and playing cards (gin with friends, blackjack at the casino and solitaire on his iPad).

Michael had a deep love for music, singing, and the performing arts. His family will always remember the soundtrack of his home, with Frank Sinatra, Neil Diamond, Andrea Bocelli, and ABBA playing as the whole family sang along. He regularly attended his family's opera and musical theater performances with excitement and pride, and he never hesitated to join in during a lively round of karaoke or a serenade of an entire restaurant.

He enjoyed great food, especially oysters, clams casino, and lobster, which became staples of every holiday. He also loved to travel with his wife and friends, taking in new places and experiences with his usual enthusiasm. He was the kind of man who brought energy into every room, the friend everyone wanted at their table, and the person who could turn an ordinary moment into a party.

Michael faced a difficult journey with dementia. While the disease changed many things, it never erased the love he gave or the legacy he leaves behind. Even in the hardest moments, his family found joy, laughter, and gratitude for the time they shared. For all these reasons and more, he truly was a legend, and let the record show that he lived his life MIKE'S WAY, true to himself in every chapter.

Visitation Tuesday January 27th from 3-9pm with a 6:30pm Rosary service at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons (Shelby Township) 54880 Van Dyke @ 25 Mile Rd. Funeral Wednesday January 28th, Instate 9:30am at St. Kieran Catholic Church 53600 Mound Rd (Btw 24 & 25 Mile Rds) until time of Mass 10am. Entombment White Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Michael's honor would be appreciated by the family to either the St. Louis Center at www.stlouiscenter.org or to the Alzheimer's Association of Michigan at www.alz.org/gmc. Share memories with the family at their "On-Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com