Mkhail "Mike" G. Chalhoub

Mkhail “Mike” Chalhoub, a remarkable man, was born on September 1, 1946, in the city of Hama, Syria to parents Emily Kassab and Georgi Chalhoub. Mike was destined for a life rich in love and resilience.

From an early age, Mkhail embraced the art of masonry, working alongside his father and older brothers. This foundation not only shaped his craft but also instilled in him the values of hard work and dedication.

In his early twenties, Mike traveled frequently to Lebanon, where he cherished moments with his youngest brother & sister. Fate introduced him to Venise Malek, a neighbor of his sister, and over coffee their connection blossomed. In a moment of boldness, Mike invited Venise to join him on his journey to America. She accepted his heartfelt proposal, and together they began a beautiful life in Livonia, Michigan, where they pursued the American dream hand in hand.

In 1984, Mike opened his first cabinet shop in Redford, Michigan, where his craftsmanship flourished, earning him a reputation built on skill and integrity. Today, his son, Tony, continues to operate the business with his dad’s proud stamp of approval.

Mike’s proudest moments were those spent watching his children George, Maria and Tony grow and flourish. Later in life, Mike was happiest when he was surrounded by his nine grandchildren who became his most admired and captivated audience, as Jido Mike would tell hilarious stories upon stories of his youth and mischief.

Mike and Venise were known for their boundless generosity and hospitality, always ensuring that a ‘finjan qahwah’ (cup) of Turkish coffee was ready on the stove. Their dinner table was a symbol of love, always adorned with a dozen chairs to accommodate anyone who dropped by.

Mike was a beacon of warmth and friendship, with a vibrant spirit, a big smile and an infectious zest for life. His memory will be honored every day.

He will be remembered by his wife, Venise Chalhoub, children George (Kathy) Chalhoub, Maria (Dr. Ayham) Ashkar, Anthony (Valin) Chalhoub, the grandchildren; sisters Josephine Daher and Salam (Hikmat) Askhar and their families, brother Fr. George (Kh. Nouhad) Shalhoub and their family, parents, the late Georgi and Emily Shalhoub, the families of his late siblings Fouad (Bernadette) Shalhoub, Raafat (Abdo) Mourdaa, Abdelmasih (Ilham) Shalhoub and the entire Shalhoub/Chalhoub Family.

Mike will lie-in-state at the Basilica of St. Mary (18100 Merriman Rd. in Livonia) on Monday, June 29th from 6:00pm-8:00pm where the family will receive condolences.

The Trisagion Prayer Service will begin at 7:30pm.

The family will receive condolences on Tuesday, June 30th at the Basilica of St. Mary from 10:00am-11:00am. The Funeral Service will begin at 11:00am.

The family requests donations to St. Mary’s Church, earmarked Mariam Center or online at https://stmarylivonia.com/s/mariam-center-donations/

May his memory be eternal.