Milton Henry “Mickey” Kaliterna passed away in Santa Clara, California on Sept. 30, 2014 of natural causes, surrounded by his family. He was 93 years old.
Born in Oakland on July 24, 1921, Kaliterna attended Mountain View High School, graduating as the salutatorian of his class. He went on to San Jose State University and Santa Clara University. Mickey was a self-made man who always did his best for his family, his community, and his country.
Kaliterna married Emma Fontana in 1942. This past August they celebrated 72 years of marriage. The Kaliternas loved entertaining at their home, and enjoyed social occasions with their many friends. Kaliterna served on the Santa Clara County Grand Jury and the Santa Clara Civil Service Commission. The Kaliternas delighted in helping their community and hosted many fundraisers for schools and organizations in Santa Clara.
Kaliterna served in the United State Navy as an engineer, stationed at Moffett Field in the Lighter Than Air division. It is this division that designed and built the blimps.
A musician his whole adult life, Kaliterna loved playing drums. He was a member of the Ambassador Four and the Elk’s Jolly Corks.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks was dear to Kaliterna’s heart. He was a life member of San Jose Lodge #522. His many titles included: Exalted Ruler, District Deputy, Lodge Treasurer, and Chairman of the Board. Kaliterna headed up the National Foundation for decades, and strongly supported the many charities of the Elks.
Kaliterna is predeceased by his mother, Mary Kaliterna, his brother and sister-in-law Vincent and Bernice Kaliterna, his brother-in-law Gerald Fox, and his nephew Kevin Fox. He is survived by his wife, daughter Danielle Kaliterna, grandson Michael Kaliterna, sister Gloria Fox, and nephews Randy Fox, Brian Fox (Jackie), David Fox, and nephew Michael “Mickey” Kaliterna.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Elks National Foundation.