Michael William Callas

With great sadness the family of Michael William Callas announces his passing on August 30, 2023 at the age of 94. Mike was born on September 19, 1928 in Minneapolis, MN. He was preceded in death by his wife Robin, his parents Violet (Kallas) and William Callas, and sisters Athena Voorlas Johnson and Kathy Callas Hoff.

He was strongly independent and lived life to the fullest the way he wanted to.  As a child of Greek immigrants, Mike learned his strong work ethic working in his family’s restaurants.  Mike attended the University of Minnesota where he earned a degree, in Pharmacy. He served as a Korean war Navy LTJG gunnery officer on the USS Uhlmann from 1952 to 1955. Following his military service Mike finished his degree worked as a pharmacist, and in 1964 purchased Wildwood Pharmacy and shortly thereafter Wildwood Shopping Center in White Bear Lake. At the young age of 91, Mike finally decided to retire when he sold the shopping center. 

Mike was an involved member of Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia.  He found great joy outdoors and loved camping, hiking, whitewater kayaking, and numerous canoe trips to the BWCA with family and friends. His favorite place was the North Shore of Lake Superior and the woods of his property in Marine.  He was also very involved with Boy Scouts first as a scout himself and then with his son's troops. 

Mike is survived by his children Bill (Nancy) and Christine; nieces and nephews. 

A funeral service will be held at Elim Lutheran Church 20971 Olinda Trail N, Scandia on October 9th at 11:00 a.m. with visitation 1 hour prior followed by interment at the church’s cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, we request memorial contributions to be made to Elim Lutheran Church Foundation or Northern Star Scouting (www.northernstar.org/give). 

Mike will be remembered for his love for nature, dedication to family & friends, military service, entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, sense of humor, willingness to help others. May we all take solace knowing that Mike has found eternal peace & joy.