 **Tribute to Michael D. Kalinich Sr.**The Strongsville GOP mourns the passing of a truly remarkable man, Michael D. Kalinich Sr., who departed this world on September 14, 2024. Michael was not only a cherished pillar of our community but also a shining example of dedication to family, business, and public service. His life is a testament to the values we hold dear and to the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Michael’s legacy begins with his unwavering devotion to his family. He was a loving husband to Erma J. for an incredible 70 years, a devoted father to Michael D. Jr., Cynthia (Christie) DeRosa, and Kimberly Kalinich-Zacharyasz, and a proud grandfather to a growing legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His kindness, wisdom, and strength were constants in the lives of those he loved, and his memory will be cherished by family and friends alike. A man of vision and enterprise, Michael carried forward the family business, Kalinich Fence Company, bringing it to Strongsville in 1956. Under his leadership, the company flourished and became a cornerstone of our local economy. His innovative spirit led him to revolutionize the industry with the invention of the semi-automatic snow fence machine, propelling his company into the global market and solidifying its place as one of the largest manufacturers of snow fence in the United States. His pride in Strongsville was evident in every endeavor, famously coining the phrase "Crossroads of the Nation," a testament to his deep connection to our city. Michael's contributions to Strongsville extended far beyond his business achievements. As President of the Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Board of Strongsville Savings Bank, and a long-serving Board Trustee at Fifth Third Bank, his influence on the local economy was profound. His commitment to public service was equally remarkable, as he devoted over three decades to Southwest General Hospital as a Board Member, helping shape the institution's success. As a founding member of the Strongsville City Club and Chairman of the Strongsville Homecoming, Michael brought joy and unity to countless residents through his tireless efforts. His dedication to our community was matched only by his love for his country. As a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Korean War, Michael’s patriotism was a cornerstone of his character, and his service to our nation remains an inspiration to all who knew him. Michael Kalinich Sr. embodied the spirit of Strongsville—strong in character, steadfast in commitment, and generous in heart. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the community he helped build. As we reflect on his life, we find comfort in the knowledge that heaven has gained a precious gift. Our thoughts and prayers are with Erma and the entire Kalinich family during this difficult time. The Strongsville GOP honors Michael’s memory and will always remember him as a kind, funny, and generous man. We are forever grateful for the privilege of having known him, and we will strive to uphold the values he lived by—God, family, and country. Rest in peace, Michael. You will be dearly missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire us all.
|
Author
Archives
April 2025
Categories
|
RSS Feed
The use of the name and/or likeness of any candidate, officeholder, or other individual is for the purpose of PAC's political communication and event informational purposes only and IN NO WAY indicates any authorization by, affiliation with, direction from, or endorsement by that person.
