Mr. Michael Caliz, affectionately known as "Mike," was born on August 17, 1981, in the Bronx, New York, to Paul and Gregoria Caliz. Mike graduated from Blake High School, Class of 1999, and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Marine Corps. During his time in service, he earned several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and a Meritorious Mast—recognition of his dedication, discipline, and quiet strength.

Outside of his service, Mike enjoyed the simple joys of life—casting a line while fishing, exploring new places through travel, and just taking things as they came. He had a way of moving through life with ease; nothing seemed to shake him. Calm, cool, and collected, Mike was the kind of person you could always count on. He was patient, kind, and genuinely selfless—a man with a heart of gold who would give without expecting anything in return. Whether he said much or not, his presence spoke volumes. He made people feel comfortable, supported, and understood.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Gregoria Caliz.

He leaves cherished memories to his fiancé, Mareshia Jones; son, Michai Caliz; daughters, Lakeya Caliz, Maliyah Jones, Maziiyah Jones and Mariyah Jones; grandchildren, Miyah Jones and Milo Jones Miller; brothers, George Lopez, Paul Caliz and Gregory Caliz; sister, Clara Caliz; nieces, Tiffany Lopez, Gloria Gamboa, India Caliz and Ganasia Caliz; nephews, Jonathan Ramirez, George Lopez, Caleb Bernardez, Malakhai Caliz, Gregory Caliz, Jr. and Joshua Lopez (deceased). Mike lived life on his own terms—steady, humble, and full of quiet goodness—and he leaves behind memories that will bring smiles for years to come.