He’s known as Mr. Mac, but his name is Tom McCormack — and at 84 years old, his former students say he’s as sharp as ever.
“His goal was to be a magician, an entertainer… but he became a teacher and made an impact on the world,” said one of his former students and Macomb County business owner Steve Michon.
Fascinated by his former shop teacher at Chippewa Valley High School, Michon has been creating YouTube videos to learn more about Mr. Mac’s extraordinary life.
Before stepping into the classroom, Michon says Mr. Mac lived a life most people could only dream of. He was a magician in Las Vegas, a comedian in California, and even spent time with Marilyn Monroe — he still has proof of it. Michon says Mr. Mac also worked for Howard Hughes, was the first employee of Glenn Bell (the founder of Taco Bell), and was good friends with legendary comedian George Carlin. And if that’s not enough, he even spent three years as a backup kicker for the Detroit Lions.
The list goes on.
But despite his incredible past, Michon says Mr. Mac remained humble, never boasting about his experiences. Instead, he focused on his students — teaching, inspiring, and mentoring them.
“He said, ‘Don’t ever let anyone tell you you can’t do something,’” Michon recalls.
His impact is undeniable, with more than 50 of his former students going on to start their own businesses. Dozens of them also staying in contact with the legendary educator and gathering at Aspen Bar and Grille to surprise him with a party and gift engraved with: “Teacher. Mentor. Friend. Mr. Mac.”
Mr. Mac seemed truly surprised, with tears in his eyes, and said it was “his kids” who were the ones inspiring him, all along.