SOUTH JERSEY — The South Jersey business community is mourning the loss of Michael “Mike” Brestle, President of Calvi Electric Company, whose passing marks the end of a remarkable era of leadership and service.
Brestle guided Calvi Electric, the oldest electrical contracting company in Southern New Jersey, into a period of growth and innovation while preserving its legacy of excellence. Founded in 1909, the company has long been recognized as the region’s premier electrical contractor, serving commercial, industrial, and institutional clients with distinction.
Under Brestle’s leadership, Calvi Electric expanded its services to meet the changing needs of its customers. He was instrumental in broadening the company’s reach beyond large-scale commercial projects to include residential services—a strategic move that allowed the firm to better serve families across the region. The shift proved especially timely during the COVID-19 pandemic, when demand for residential electrical work surged.
Brestle also oversaw the creation of Calvi’s solar and sign divisions, positioning the company as a multifaceted provider capable of meeting modern energy and infrastructure demands. These initiatives reinforced Calvi’s role as a forward-thinking industry leader while maintaining its reputation for reliability and quality.
Perhaps most visibly, Calvi Electric is credited with installing the systems that power the casinos, hotels, and condominiums that define the iconic Atlantic City skyline—a testament to the company’s technical expertise and enduring impact on the region.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brestle was deeply committed to community service. Continuing a long-standing family tradition, he supported numerous charitable causes and community initiatives. Calvi Electric has been a major sponsor of the AtlantiCare Foundation’s signature events, including the Thomas L. Glenn Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament and the Annual Century Club Gala, which fund critical healthcare programs across South Jersey.
Colleagues and friends describe Brestle as a leader defined by integrity, vision, and dedication to his clients and community. His emphasis on quality service, trust, and customer satisfaction ensured Calvi Electric’s reputation remained unmatched in the field.
Brestle’s passing leaves a void not only within his family and company but also in the broader South Jersey community. His legacy endures in the company he strengthened, the skyline his projects illuminated, and the lives touched through his community involvement.