Stephen Subocz

With a life that spanned times of great change in the world around him, Stephen Subocz lived a vibrant life filled with the people, places, and things he was passionate about. He was hardworking and active within the community he called home throughout most of his life. Stephen liked reading and keeping up on current events, and while he enjoyed being out and about he also liked just being at home. He will be forever missed and warmly remembered by those who knew him best.

It was during the exciting decade that is often referred to as the “Nifty Fifties” that Stephen’s journey began. These were the days when Alaska and Hawaii weren’t officially states until the decade came to a close, giving us much to celebrate. This was also the decade when James Dean and Marilyn Monroe became well-known on the sliver screen, and with Elvis Presley’s introduction to rock ’n roll the music industry was never the same. It was as the calendar turned to welcome 1954 that Edward and Kathryn (Platte) Subocz were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The big day finally arrived when the baby boy they named Stephen John drew his first breath on January 15th.

Raised in the family home on the Northwest side of Grand Rapids, Stephen joined his older brother, Mike, in the family. With the birth of his younger sister, Anne, their family of five was complete. Described as friendly and happy, he had a close group of friends and attended local schools. During his elementary years Stephen attended Saint Anthony, and he later went on to West Catholic High School, where he played the trumpet in the band.

Once he graduated from high school in 1972, Stephen went on to Western Michigan University. There, he earned his BA in Manufacturing with an interest in electrical engineering. Upon graduating, Stephen enlisted in the Navy and served for a total of three years. After he was discharged he moved to Bar Harbor, Maine, where he worked at a resort. Using the G.I. Bill, Stephen went back to school to study environmental soil science. Upon the completion of his studies, he took a job as a soil scientist in Indiana.

After a few years Stephen was ready return to his roots, moving back to Grand Rapids. He started working for the United States Post Office and made his entire career there, spanning nearly 20 years until retiring in 2015. He made his home in the Walker area on the city’s Northwest side, where he was "happily" single.

There were many things that made Stephen unique and so likable. Although he was primarily an introvert and quiet by nature, he did have a small but close group of friends. He liked getting away to fish for bluegill and Gun Lake whenever time allowed, and his favorite restaurant was the Olive Garden. Stephen also enjoyed cooking at home, and although he was always happy with the results it was usually questionable whether anyone else agreed. It has been said that he liked anything chocolate, and ice cream was also among his favorites. During his later years Stephen enjoyed root beer. He could often be found hanging out at the Walker Barbershop, and as someone who liked to be active and in good health he also frequently worked out at Walker Ice and Fitness. When relaxing he liked reading historical biography books as well as watching the news on television.

With a kind and genuine personality, Stephen Subocz was someone who everyone enjoyed being around. He worked hard in everything he did, but he also took the time to enjoy life along the way. Stephen made the most of the moments he was given and was happiest when surrounded by his friends and loved ones. Deeply cherished, he will never be forgotten.

SUBOCZ – Mr. Stephen J. Subocz age 68, of Walker, passed away on September 11, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Kathryn Subocz; niece, Kate Sellers-Subocz; and his cat, Becky. Stephen is survived by his siblings, Michael (Sally Sellers) Subocz and Anne Kikstra; nieces and nephews, Emily (Casey) Rogalette, Alice Sellers-Subocz and Nickolas (Katelyn) Kikstra; grand-niece, Rosie Rogalette; and grand-nephew, Ramsey Rogalette. Stephen worked for the US Postal Service for nearly 20 years. He enjoyed long walks and fishing, eating at Olive Garden, hanging out at Walker Barber Shop or working out at Walker Ice and Fitness. A Funeral Service will be held at 12PM on Friday September 16, 2022 at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. The family will receive visitors from 10 AM until the start of the service. Interment in Holy Cross Cemetery. Contributions in his memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Please visit www.heritagelifestory.com to read Stephen’s life story, submit a favorite memory, photo or to sign the guestbook.