Michael D. Ciletti, past interim dean and retired professor in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, passed away on July 21, 2023, at age 81 after a battle with cancer.
He was a resident of Colorado Springs for 49 years. Michael first came to Colorado Springs in 1968, to serve in his ROTC commission doing research at the USAFA. After living briefly in California, he returned to Colorado in 1974, where he began his teaching career at UCCS. He taught in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department and served as both interim dean and chair of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department before retiring in July of 2010.
He was a well-known mentor of junior faculty and made a lasting impression on many of his students, one of whom made an anonymous donation to establish a scholarship that has supported 32 students since its inception in 2016. Michael also wrote several renowned textbooks on advanced digital design that are still used by universities worldwide.
“Mike was an extremely well-regarded professor, with high standards for students, who appreciated his expertise as they entered the workforce,” said Thottam Kalkur, current Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Chair. “His students went on to establish successful engineering careers.”
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jerilynn; and five children: Monica (Michael) McCormick, Lucy (Peter) Van Dusen, Rebecca (Shanti Taylor) Ciletti, Christine (David) Steigerwald, and Michael (Michelle) Ciletti.
A rosary will be held on August 18, 2023, at 3:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Parish, 2030 W. Colorado Avenue, CO 80904, followed by a funeral mass at 4 p.m. Reception to follow. Interment will be at the Columbarium at Mount St. Francis in a private ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Southwest Indian Foundation (PO Box 86, Gallup, NM 87302-0001) or the St Anthony Indian Mission (PO Box 486, Zuni, NM 87327-0486).