Stephen John Mogdis' Obituary
On Saturday, June 18, 2022, Stephen John Mogdis passed away at the age of 99, just 20 days short of his 100th birthday. He was the loving husband to Julia (Swiatecki) Mogdis who preceded him in death. His fervent wish these last seven years had been “to join Julie in paradise.” God finally granted that wish. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Gizella Mogdis; brothers Joe, Frederick, and Louie Mogdis and sisters Rose Ann Rey, Maggie Breitfield, and Sister Louisa Mogdis, OP. Steve was father to two children, Marian Mogdis McDermed and John (Carol) Mogdis. Both will miss his wisdom greatly. An old school parent, he instilled his work ethic deeply in his kids and they are grateful for that.
Steve was most proud of his service in the US Army during World War II. He served in the Pacific theatre, mostly in the Philippines but also in Australia and Japan. He loved his country and the men with whom he served. Steve married Julia Swiatecki on December 28, 1946 and resumed his employment at Campbell, Wyant and Cannon. He worked in the Personnel Office and later was in charge of labor relations. He retired from CWC Textron at the age of 58, determined to enjoy every moment of his retirement. He and Julie traveled the country and spent every winter in Florida. They took an annual trip to Las Vegas. In Michigan, they frequently visited the casino in Manistee. A lifelong member of the Muskegon Elks and Oakridge Golf Course, he was on the links several times a week in the summer. He lived across the street and drove his golf cart over for early morning tee times. An excellent golfer, he shot par golf into his 70th year and won many tournaments. His handicap remained low until vision problems forced retirement from golf. He shared his love of golf with son John and grandson Steve. Steve had three grandchildren, Steven (Abbie) Mogdis, Lauren Mogdis, Lisa McDermed Wallace (deceased) and adoptive grandson Ryan McDermed who gently took care of his grandfather in his later years. He also had 3 step grandsons, Shawn, Kevin and Cory McDermed. Steve had eight great grandchildren and four great, great grandchildren. A strong Catholic, he was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. Steve’s was a life well-lived. The family wishes to thank the staff and nurses at Roosevelt Park Living Center for the care that Stephen received. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 1, 2022 at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church with Rev. Charles D. Hall presiding. VISITATION will be one hour prior to the Mass. Military Honors will be offered by the Muskegon County Council of Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Michigan Army National Guard Honor Detail. Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be directed to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church Memorial Fund. Arrangements handled by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Sign the online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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