GREENE – Michael R. Calkins, 49, chief engineer at WBNG, passed on peacefully surrounded by his wife and children on Friday, April 11, 2008, after an 11-month battle with lung cancer.
He is survived by wife, Heather Calkins; children, Kyla (Calkins) and husband, Adam Valls, Dylan Calkins, Elise Calkins and Tyler Calkins; mother, Hannelore Calkins; father and stepmother, Calvin and Pat Calkins; sister, Christina Calkins; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Donald and Diane Windsor; two brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law, Aaron Windsor, Arthur and Debbie Windsor; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ellen and Jason Holtzman; niece, Jamie; nephew, Jacob; and many lifelong friends.
In addition to working at WBNG, Mike enjoyed being the sound man for many bands over the years. Mike enjoyed his final gig the night before his passing at his home. Mike was known for being the voice of calm during a crisis. He was his own man and lived life to the fullest. Mike was a proud father, loving husband, and was a good friend to many.
Funeral services will be held 1 p.m., Tuesday at Root Funeral Home, 23 N. Chenango Street, Greene, N.Y. 13778.
Friends of the family may call Monday from 1-3 and 6-8 p.m. at Root Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Broome Oncology Patient Fund, 30 Harrison St., Johnson City, N.Y. 13790.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Ronald Harris and Broome Oncology, Dr. Harry Werner, Dr. Greg Mullen, Dr. Fenlon, South Tower 5 and North Tower 2 at Wilson Hospital, Professional Home Care and Chenango Hospice for Michael’s care.
They also wish an extra special thank you to the staff at WBNG and to all of their friends for their help and support.