Jeffery M. Dudgeon's Obituary
Jeffery M Dudgeon was born on February 22, 1958, to parents Betty and Lee Dudgeon. He graduated from Mona Shores High School in 1976. He also attended Muskegon Community College. Jeff was a very hard worker and began his employment career at 13 years of age, opening a concession stand in our front yard on Lake Harbor Rd. As soon as Jeff could get a work permit, he was hired as kitchen help at Doo Drop Inn where all the cooks embraced “little Jeffy” and taught him the culinary skills he used throughout his lifetime. His love of cooking and the restaurant industry led him to Betsy’s Cottage Inn, Government Lake Bar and The Station Grill. His next career move was to Grabow Distribution. He eventually became a semi driver delivering beverages and spreading the Christmas spirit by delivering Christmas trees to Florida. He then switched careers completely when he received his Deputy Civil Process card and worked as a Court Officer. He established “At your Service” and became one of the finest Court Officers to ever service Muskegon and surrounding Counties in Michigan. In retirement Jeff found great satisfaction driving for the Red Cross/AgeWell Services - Muskegon.
While Jeff’s career was important, what was most important to Jeff was his family and friends. Jeff’s big sense of humor, his caring approach, and incredible generosity created life-long friendships. To Jeff, these people were more than friends, they were a part of his family. To his family, Jeff’s almost daily contact with his siblings and his mother and father, made everyone feel loved and special. His energy and positive approach to those of us who were lucky enough to have Jeff in our life, made him one very special man.
Jeff is survived by his mother, Betty Dudgeon and his siblings: Kathy (Mike) Sadler, Kari (Brett) Gardner, Craig Dudgeon, David (Leah)Dudgeon and Karla (Don) Wols; Nieces and Nephews: Kalia, Samantha, Gavin, Ivy, Nina, Natalia and Carl, and great nephew Ethan. Jeff is also survived by his two surrogate sons and their families Scott Schuiteman (Jamie and special granddaughter Bethany), Derek and May Blacha, aunts, loving cousins, and close friends.
Jeff wanted to give special recognition to the great medical community that provided him with outstanding and loving care for many years of his life. Jeff developed a close relationship with many of these people, including Dr. Robert Mann who held a special place in his heart.
Jeff was preceded in death by his Father Lee J. Dudgeon, and some of his dearest friends.
A service to remember and celebrate Jeff’s life will be held Tuesday, January 3, at 10:00 am at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Following the service, you are invited to join the family for a time of visitation and sharing memories of Jeff. That will also take place at the funeral home.
Contributions in Jeff’s memory may be made to Meals on Wheels – AgeWell Services Muskegon.
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