SAN DIEGO, CA –
With profound sadness and deep emotion, the St. Spyridon parish in San Diego, CA family and the entire Metropolis of San Francisco bid farewell to Deacon Michael A. Kallas, 64, who passed away peacefully in San Diego, CA, surrounded by the love of his family and friends following an extended illness.
His funeral was held on May 28 at his beloved St. Spyridon church in San Diego where he had been serving, with His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco officiating.
“I first remember meeting Deacon Michael in 1996 when he enrolled at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. He was thoughtful, insightful, and very prayerful in his approach to his studies. We worked together very closely in various aspects of Student Life while at Hellenic College Holy Cross. Following the completion of his studies, we retained a connection throughout his life and ministry”, commented His Eminence adding that “Deacon Michael remained dedicated to serving the Lord, loving His people, and supporting the spiritual and emotional growth of all those he encountered”.
Born on February 3, 1962, in Santa Monica, California, to Anthony and Pauline Kallas, Deacon Michael lived a life marked by steady devotion, quiet strength, and faithful commitment to the people and com munities entrusted to his care. He will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who knew him.
From an early age, he was known for his honesty, strong work ethic, and genuine desire to grow in wisdom and purpose. He went on to earn two master’s degrees, an accomplishment that reflected both his discipline and his lifelong commitment to learning — qualities that remained a defining part of who he was throughout his life.
For 38 years, Deacon Michael dedicated his life to the field of marriage and family therapy. His compassion and gentle spirit were more than qualities he brought to his profession; they reflected the essence of his character. He was deeply committed to guiding others through life’s hardships with dignity and hope, offering care marked by generosity, loyalty, and integrity that earned the trust of all who knew him.
He was ordained to the diaconate and served faithfully at his beloved parish, Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church in San Diego, where he co-served alongside Fr. Andrew Scordalakis. Deeply devoted to the Word of God, he gave of himself with humility, steadfast faith, and grace.
Deacon Michael met his wife, Tina, while they were both serving at Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church in San Diego — he as youth director and she as church secretary. They married in 1989, beginning a life of shared adventure together. Over the years, they made homes in the Inland Empire, Orange County, and Boston, where Michael attended and graduated from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. After adopting their child, they returned to San Diego. Michael was a deeply devoted father who treasured every moment spent with his family.
Deacon Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Tina; their child, Hannah/Landon; his brother, John (Demetra); his sister, Sophia (Stephen); his nephew, Louie; his nieces, Alexia and Elena; as well as many cherished uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.
