Ted Callear, age 91 passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025. He was preceded in death by loving wife of 60 years, Joanne (Peterson) Callear; sisters, Connie Majeskie, Barbara Daniels; and parents, Frances Price, Ralph & Bernice Callear.
Ted was a specialist in the 82nd airborne division of the US Army from 1954-1956 as an Airborne Ranger and head of photography Paratrooper. He later worked in several sales positions until he retired from Stiles Machinery, however he continued to work well into his 80’s selling his creations on eBay, volunteering at Gods Helping Hands and Chapel of the Lakes Lutheran church where he met many great friends. He loved volunteering his time and skills within the community and helping with local children’s events. He enjoyed serving his community, cooking, baking, working in the yard, metal and woodworking, building furniture, boating, photography, and anything to stay active and busy.
Ted is survived by 5 children, Clark and wife LeeAnn Callear, Lynn and husband Rich Ortiz, Ralph and wife Linda Callear, Keith Callear, Marsha and husband Jerry Steele; sister, Nancy Sharoian; sister-in-law, Marlyss Rzepko; 12 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Services will be held Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 11:00am with visitation at 10:00am at Chapel of the Lakes Lutheran Church, 9407 90th Ave, Mecosta, MI 49332. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gods Helping Hands, Chapel of the Lakes Lutheran Church, or to your local cancer society.
17 Responses
So proud to call him Dad, He always treated me like a daughter. Our Tuesday dinner and cards was something we all looked forward too. We’re going to miss you Dad see you in heaven. Love your Daughter Linda
This was a man that taught us how how to love your spouse by the example he set. He loved his community and all the friends he met there. He could do anything and stayed active to the end. We cherish the mandatory Tues dinners we did with him the past 11 years
God bless you Dad Hug Mom for us
Love Ralph
Ted was my best friend for at least the last 5 years, and I will miss him greatly. I also miss having coffee with him several times a week, and all the baked goods he made, plus the leftovers he would give me. He was highly mechanically inclined and frequently would suggest improved methods for my projects.
Dad was a man of pure heart, honesty and integrity.
Through life examples, dad taught me to be strong, resilient, respectful of others and no matter how much I messed things up, to always do the right thing in the end.
Dad loved his wife Joanne & worked hard to raise his family of 5 kids all within 10 years apart!
This world needs many more fathers like the one who loved me.
I miss and will cherish our memories together forever.
I love you dad.
Keith Callear
Ted was my and my husband’s neighbor for many years and we will always remember him so fondly and miss him greatly. From helping my husband with some house repairs and removing trees to his baking me the best birthday cake ever, he was simply the best, dearest neighbor, friend and wonderful person. I always looked forward to his “Hi, Jeanie” whenever I left the house in the morning and my return in the evening. Sending prayers to Ted’s family for comfort. Jeanie Mostek & Mickey Rudzis
Ralph & Linda,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. It sounds like your father was quite a guy who lived a remarkable life. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Your parents always were kind and made you feel like family. He was truly a wonderful person father and husband He will be greatly missed by all. Hugs and kisses to all his family.
Ted was a wonderful man! And together with Joanne, raised a beautiful family! Please know we’re praying for all of you to find peace, and comfort knowing your dad is now dancing in heaven with your mom. Rest in peace Ted! Love Paul and Linda Krebill 💕
Good bye, Ted. Thank you for all the great conversations, and your delicious bakery goods. Thank you for bringing me by food, and your company, after my surgery. Heaven gained a great soul with a great sense of humor.
Dad’s life has served as an honorable example to me in all ways. I’m proud to be his son.
I see my grandfather as one of the smartest men I’d ever known. His guidance and nurturing helped me become the person I am today. I watched him set the example of a loving husband, caring father, and wise grandfather. I look back on my childhood with fondness and tears of happiness. He will be missed, but my heart is full from his memory.
Ted is my Brother. I love him and I shall miss him. In my eyes, he was a great father, and wonderful husband to Joanne. All 5 of his kids, my nieces & nephews were so fortunate to have such a special Dad. He will remain in my heart— always. Love, your sister, Nancy💔
To Keith, Marsha and Ralph,
I grew up as a friend and neighbor of yours, and your dad was an ever present source of strength, fun, and intelligent talks. Around 2009 (I’m guessing), an older friend had fallen and needed more help than I could provide to get him up. I didn’t know what to do, so I contacted your dad. He lived close by, and was willing to drop what he was doing and came out to assist. Though he wasn’t as strong as he had been when I was young, he gave it his all, and together we got him up.
Thank you for the memories, boatrides, for raising such wonderful people, and for just being a wonderful man. May God Bless you in your new Heavenly Home.
Kathy Miller – Clements
If you tugged on Superman’s cape, he’d make you breakfast. You could always find dad working in his workshop or in the kitchen. A creative and strong man who was always working on something. Where we see a pile of rocks, he saw a water fountain, we saw a box of caster wheels, he saw wedge tables, we saw stale bread, he saw French toast, we saw a roll of canvas, he saw banners. He never stayed still and loved sharing his creations, whether it was a meal or a kitchen cabinet…Marsha (Callear) Steele
We are so sorry to hear of Ted’s passing and are sending our love and condolences to the family. We are lucky enough to have Ted as a neighbor after moving here from far away. My dogs always looked for him anytime we walk by. I will miss the random conversations, some great coffee chats with the best brownies, and the smiles and waves on a daily basis. We were blessed to know you Ted and you will forever have a place in our hearts. May you rest in peace and may your family find comfort in the days ahead. Ted you are a shining example of what the world needs more of.
Ted was a good friend
I will miss him
I apologize as I was unaware and sad to hear about Ted’s passing. I had meet Ted a few times, always left a great impression. Great family man.