Michael J. Kaiser

Michael J. Kaiser (Mike) passed away on January 26, 2025 at the age of 75 after a long battle with Parkinsons Disease. Mike lived a life marked by devotion to family, a passion for community service, and a love for life's simple joys.
Mike worked in international development, and with his beloved wife Miriam raised their family around the world before he retired in 2012.
Mike grew up in Yeadon, PA, the son of the late Howard "Bud" Kaiser and Minerva (nee Hitchins) Kaiser who laid the foundation for a life of learning and leadership. He was a graduate of Bonner HS and St. Joseph's College. After college Mike joined the Peace Corps where he worked in Bolivia. After the Peace Corps Mike earned a Master's Degree from the American Graduate School of International Management in Phoenix, AZ.
Mike's international career first took him to Venezuela, where he honed his skills and embraced diverse cultures. In 1984, Mike embarked on a distinguished career with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), an organization whose mission to reduce poverty and promote economic development resonated deeply with his own values. During his career as a USAID diplomat, he led the disaster reconstruction effort in Puno, Peru. He also oversaw USAID projects in the Dominican Republic, Peru, Bolivia, Jamaica, Ukraine, and Paraguay. Mike's work was not just a job; it was a testament to his belief in the power of helping our global neighbors.
Mike's loving wife of 45 years, Miriam "Dee Dee" McGillin Kaiser, stood by him as a partner in every aspect of life's journey. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Matt (spouse the late Courtney Johnson) and Marta (spouse Felix Wehking.) Mike delighted in his role as a grandad (Iron Mike) to Toby, Hannah, Miri, and Abby, cherishing every moment he could spend with them in person or on video calls to Germany. He was a loving brother of Jude Wiggins, John Kaiser, and the late Kathleen Hart. Also survived by many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews who remember Mike's kindness and wisdom but mostly his sense of humor.
Mike was an avid golfer and a devoted fan of Philly sports, especially his beloved Eagles (Go Birds!). He loved music, everything from John Prine to the Great American Songbook. Mike's happiest moments were spent surrounded by family and friends, whether it was doing a crossword together or playing a game, playing baseball, or debating the Phillies and Eagles merits and faults!
Mike's legacy is one of love, service, and joy. His impact on the world was profound, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him. Mike's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
A private celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the Kaiser family requests contributions be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163. https://give.michaeljfox.org/give/421686/#!/donation/checkout