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Michael E. Chalcraft, 65, of Columbus, OH passed away peacefully on September 19, 2013. Mike was known for his contagious smile, witty sense of humor, and giving heart. He had the ability to put strangers at ease while always reminding family and friends how much they meant to him in his own unique ways. He was an avid golfer, sports fan, lover of travel, children, and animals, but most of all, he enjoyed being around the ones he loved. He was born in Artesia, California on September 8, 1948, the oldest child of Carroll 'Chalky' Chalcraft and Mamie 'Betty' Chalcraft (Gray). Mike and his family moved to Illinois when he was 3, and then moved again to Zanesville, OH when he was 8 years old, and their roots are still strong in that area today. Mike graduated from Zanesville High School in 1966 at the age of 17. He then joined The United States Air Force, and served 2 tours in The Vietnam War as an Air Traffic Controller. Mike was named 'Airman of the Month' in August 1970 and 'Airman of the Quarter' while stationed at Binh Thuy Air Base. After completing his time in the military, Mike attended Ohio University where he graduated with a Business Degree in 1975. Following brief stints working in Myrtle Beach, SC, New York City, NY, Charleston, WV, and Columbus, OH, Mike returned to Zanesville to help manage the family-run Eastern Specialty Company. While in Zanesville, Mike reunited with his high school sweetheart, Lorraine Joseph. The two were married in 1978, and Mike lovingly assisted in the care and upbringing of Lorraine's two sons from her previous marriage, Ryan and Cy Dodson. A year later, Mike and Lorraine gave birth to their only child together, Aaron Chalcraft. After Lorraine's untimely death from cancer in 1997, and Aaron's high school graduation in 1998, Mike moved to Columbus, OH where he lived with long-time girlfriend, Cheryl Brown, until his passing. Mike retired in 2010 from Oglebay Norton Industrial Sands (Central Silica/ Carmeuse) where he was Vice President of Sales. He then founded and incorporated his own business, Worthington Minerals LLC, where he was President and Owner of the regional mineral sales company. He is survived by three children, Aaron (Morgan) Chalcraft of Columbus, OH; Ryan Dodson of Zanesville, OH; and Cy Dodson of Minneapolis, MN. He is also survived by two brothers and one sister, Nate Chalcraft, Matt (Kathy) Chalcraft, and Hanna (John) Mohr. In addition, Mike is survived by his mother, Betty Chalcraft; two nieces, Stevie Chalcraft and Natalie Forth; nephew, Dominic Mohr; and Cheryl Brown (girlfriend of 12 years). Lastly, he is survived by Charlie Puckett, first cousin, friend, and golf partner; as well as countless other family and friends that he cared deeply about, but are too numerous to mention. He was preceded in death by his wife Lorraine and his father Chalky. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice . A Celebration of Life will be held at the Zanesville Country Club in Zanesville, OH on Sunday, September 22 from 2-6 p.m. |
