Lewis “Lew” Mudd

Published 3:45 pm Thursday, April 17, 2025

January 2, 1938 – April 11, 2025

Lewis “Lew” R. Mudd, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully from natural causes on April 11, 2025, in Niles, Michigan, at the age of 87. Born on January 2, 1938, in Bremen, Indiana, to the late William C. and Margaret Anna (Barone) Mudd, Lew was a man of exceptional character, known for his handy work, friendly demeanor, and kind heart.

Lew’s early life in Bremen set the stage for a lifetime of devoted service and community involvement. At the age of 18, he answered the call of duty and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps on February 29, 1956. His service to the country was marked by honor and dedication, and he received an honorable discharge three years later, carrying the values and discipline of the Marines throughout his life.

After his military service, Lew found his calling as a gifted builder, a career that occupied his hands and heart for many years. His work was not just a means to an end but a canvas upon which he left a legacy of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Beyond his professional life, Lew was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member of St. Mark Catholic Church in Niles, a brother in the Fraternal Order of Eagles #2094, a comrade at American Legion Post 51 in Buchanan, a Knight of Columbus with the Father Allouez Council #708 in Niles, and an AMVETS Post 1978 member.

On a cold January day in 1960, Lew married Phyllis A. Stucker in a ceremony filled with love and promise in Niles, Michigan. Their partnership was a testament to enduring love and mutual respect, and Phyllis remains to honor his memory. Lew was a family man through and through. He was the proud father of Anthony “Tony” Mudd of Reno, Nevada, Steven (Lori) Mudd, Brian (Kim) Mudd, William “Bill” Mudd, and Carol (Brian) Morris, all of Niles. His legacy continues through his ten grandchildren, one step-granddaughter, three great-grandchildren, and a step-great-granddaughter, all of whom he adored.

In addition to his parents, Lew was preceded in death by his brothers Michael and Phillip Mudd, and his sisters, Anna Margaret Pinkerton and Josephine Snook. However, his memory will be carried on by his brother, Duane “James” Mudd of Niles, his sister, Barbara (James) Mooney of Williamston, Michigan and many nieces, nephews, cousins, second cousins and special friends.

Lew’s interests were as rich and varied as his life. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed shooting guns and bird hunting. He cherished time spent at the lake of his very dear friends, soaking in the serenity of nature. But above all, Lew was a family man who loved spending time with his loved ones. He took immense pleasure in watching his children and then his grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in sports activities, always offering his support from the sidelines with a broad smile and encouraging words.

Described by those who knew him as handy, friendly, and kind, Lew’s presence was a comfort and a pillar of strength to his family and friends. His ability to fix anything that was broken extended beyond the material, touching the lives of those he interacted with, leaving a lasting impact on the community he held so dear.

Memorial contributions may be made in Lew’s memory to St. Mark’s Catholic Church at 3 N. 19th Street, Niles, Michigan 49120 or to Tunnels to Towers Foundation at 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York, 10306 or Corewell Health Hospice at 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, Michigan 49085.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St, Mark Catholic Church in Niles on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM with a time of visitation one hour prior, officiated by Rev. Father Peter Rocca, C.S.C. and Brother Dennis Meyers, C.S.C. An interment will follow with Full Military Honors performed by the U.S. Marine Corps and American Legion Post 51 in Buchanan at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.